
do^'^(J'lc4j 



MEMORIAL CYCLOPEDIA 



OF 



NEW JERSEY 



Under the Editorial Supervision of 



MARY DEPUE OGDEN 



ADVISORY BOARD 



MRS. GARRET A. HOBART, 

PATERSON. 

MRS. JOSEPH D. BEDLE, 

JERSEY CITY. 

MRS. HENRY S. WHITE, 

RED BANK. 

MRS. CRAIG A. MARSH, 

PI.AINFIELD. 

MRS. E. GAYLORD PUTNAM, 

ELIZABETH. 

MRS. JOHN MOSES, 

TRENTON. 

MRS. MARY 



MRS. R. V. W. FAIRCHILD, 

PARSIPPANY. 

MRS. ANDREW SINNICKSON, 

SALEM. 

MISS ELIZABETH STRONG, 

NEW BRUNSWICK. 

MISS MARGARET O. HAINES, 

BURLINGTON. 

MISS SARAH NATHALIE DOUGHTY. 

.■ATLANTIC CITY. 

MRS. WILLIAM NELSON, 

PATERSON. 

ROBESON SMITH, 

BELVIDERE. 



VOLUME II. 



MEMORIAL HISTORY COMPANY 

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY 

19 15 



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CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



COLES, Abraham, 

Surgeon, Scholar, Statesman. 

Abraham Coles, M. D., Ph. D., LL.D., 
son of Dennis and Catherine (Van Deur- 
sen) Coles, was born December 26, 1813, 
at Scotch Plains, New Jersey. His father 
was then living on the ancestral farm, which 
he had inherited, its title-deed antedating 
the Revolution. He was a man of sterling 
integrity, sound judgment, and rare literary 
taste. He had been for a number of years 
a printer and editor in Newburg, New York, 
of a newspaper — "The Recorder of the 
Times." Bound volumes of this paper were 
preserved and treasured by his son Abra- 
ham, in whom he early cultivated his fond- 
ness for study and for literature. 

As a youth. Dr. Coles manifested a dil- 
igent interest in the acquisition of knowl- 
edge. His love of learning must have led 
him to private study, for at the age of sev- 
enteen he assisted Rev. Mr. Bond, pastor of 
the First Presbyterian Church of Plainfield, 
in his school, as teacher of Latin and math- 
ematics. 

At eighteen years of age, he had resolved 
to study law, and entered the office of Chief 
Justice Joseph C. Homblower, at Newark. 
He seems soon to have discovered that he 
could find a wider field for usefulness in 
the practice of medicine than of law, for, 
in less than a year, he left the office to study 
for the medical profession. His resolution 
to make himself acquainted with law, was, 
however, never shaken. Throughout his 
long life, his fondness for the law and his 
knowledge thereof were recognized and 
mentioned by Daniel Webster and others. 

Having attended lectures at the Univer- 



NoTE. — This narrative is from the pen of the 
late Ezra M. Hunt, M.D., LL.D. 



sity and at the College of Physicians and 
Surgeons, New York, and at Jefferson Col- 
lege, Philadelphia, he graduated at the lat- 
ter in 1835. Returning to his home, he 
made a profession of his Christian faith, 
uniting with the Scotch Plains Church, 
under the pastorate of the Rev. John Rog- 
ers. In 1836 he settled, for the practice of 
the medical profession, in Newark, New 
Jersey. 

Those who knew him in early profession- 
al life can well recogfnize how, with his 
modesty, diffidence and reserve, he should 
thus far not have revealed the amount of 
knowledge he had acquired. Yet those who 
met him were impressed with his command- 
ing personality, his urbane and quiet dig- 
nity, and somehow felt themselves in the 
presence of a superior nature. 

Besides thorough preparation in his pro- 
fession, he evidently had spent much of 
his time in the study of the classics, and 
had acquired an accurate knowledge there- 
of, such as is possessed by those who have 
by dint of personal effort worked their way 
into the genius and technicalities of a dead 
language. 

In 1842 he married Caroline E. Acker- 
man, a good, noble, beautiful and ac- 
complished daughter of Jonathan C. and 
Maria (Smith) Ackerman, of New Bruns- 
wick, New Jersey. The same year he 
purchased for their home the premises 
No. 222 Market street, Newark, New 
Jersey, where their two children were 
born — Dr. J. Ackerman Coles, and Miss 
Emilie S. Coles. This homestead is still 
owned by them. 

After the death of his adored wife, in 
1848, he went abroad, spending most of his 
time in hospitals, and in the society of schol- 
ars and of the most eminent physicians and 
surgeons of Europe. He was in Paris dur- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ing the Revolution of June, 1848, which 
gave him special opportunities for surgical 
study. 

When I as a student entered his office, 
in 1849, 'le was regarded as the most ac- 
complished practitioner of Newark, and 
eminent both for his professional and lit- 
erary acquirements. He had already found 
his practice sufficient to admit a partner, 
which he did all the more readily because 
seeking to secure more time for literary 
study, and the indulgence of his taste both 
in art and literature. He had been favored 
in and out of his profession with such pe- 
cuniary success — resulting mostly from ju- 
dicious investments in real estate — as en- 
abled him to continue in practice chiefly for 
the love of his calling. He was fond of 
clinical exactness, was often called upon in 
consultation, especially in surgical cases, 
and had that conscientious regard for the 
welfare of his patients which led him care- 
fully to study and observe, so as to be skill- 
ful in his treatment and devotedly attentive 
to those in his charge. In 1854, he again 
visited Europe. After an absence of seven- 
teen months, during which he made the con- 
tinental languages a study, he returned to 
his practice in Newark. He then devoted 
himself with increased knowledge and 
earnestness to professional work, and for 
many years, with another assistant, contin- 
ued in the active practice of his profession. 
In 1862, under the direction of an emi- 
nent English landscape gardener, he began 
the laying out and beautifying of seven- 
teen acres of the ancestral farm at Scotch 
Plains, selecting for his plantings the 
choicest varieties of foreign and domestic 
trees, plants and shrubs. In one portion 
of this park, he located a reproduction of 
the famous labyrinth at Hampton Court, 
near London. In another part, he enclosed 
a large paddock for a herd of deer of his 
own raising. He built, subsequently, a 
house of brick and stone and native woods, 
in harmony with the grounds. In this he 
resided with his son and daughter, and was 

4 



a most genial and entertaining host. His 
large library with its contents was the 
special admiration of his many guests. 
Among the imported copies of antiques on 
the lawn is one of ^sculapius, and in the 
house Horatio Stone's marble bust of Har- 
vey, and other marbles, bronzes and paint- 
ings of the different schools by artists of 
the highest merit. On the highest point 
of his mountain-land opposite his home, he 
erected a handsome rustic tower, two 
stories high. 

While retiring from the more active du- 
ties of a general practice, he was for many 
years daily at his Newark office; and also. 
as a favor, allowed many of those who liv- 
ed near his country home, "Deerhurst," to 
avail themselves of his advice. In fact, it 
cannot be said that he relinquished practice 
at all, or allowed his increasing literary dis- 
tinction and his business duties to interfere 
with his devotion to his chosen pursuit. 
He was eminently a physician, amid all 
other eminence. He delighted in his profes- 
sion, both as a science and as an art. He 
felt his calling to be a sacred one. It was 
a part of his ministry for the Master whom 
he loved to serve. He lived to assuage 
pain, and to be courageous in relieving sick- 
ness and postponing death ; rejoicing in the 
good he was thus enabled to do for human- 
ity and for God. 

How loyal he was to his profession, amid 
the greater glow of literary fame and the 
temptations of wealthy ease, let "The Mi- 
crocosm" testify. This poetic address of 
his, as president of the Medical Society of 
New Jersey in 1866, should be read and re- 
read by every physician as an inspiration to 
accurate knowledge, to close analysis, to 
professional enthusiasm, and to adoring 
love. It leaves a poor excuse for any of us, 
if we are not inspired by the theme of our 
studies, and the object of our life service. 
It does not ignore that which is material 
and world-wise, but it crowns it with that 
which is spiritual and eternal. It shows how 
we have a mission to fulfill ; and how in- 



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CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



tegral and essential Christianity is to those 
who Hve to minister to their fellow-men in 
sickness and in death. As he expresses it 
in his note as to Vesalius : "The Divine 
Redeemer, the Incarnate Word, Alaker of 
all things, Lord of life, is Lord also of the 
Sciences." 

In the Physician's edition of "The Micro- 
cosm," as published by the Appletons, he 
introduces several illustrations. One is the 
portrait of Vesalius devoutly engaged in 
dissection, which he inserts as illustrative 
of these lines: 

Dear God ! this Body, which, with wondrous art 

Thou hast contrived, and finished part by part, 

Itself a universe, a lesser all. 

The greater cosmos crowded in the small — 

I kneel before it, as a thing divine ; 

For such as this, did actually enshrine 

Thy gracious Godhead once, when Thou didst 

make 
Thyself incarnate, for my sinful sake. 
Thou who hast done so very much for me, 

let me do some humble thing for Thee ! 

1 would to every Organ give a tongue. 
That Thy high praises may be fitly sung; 
Appropriate ministries assign to each. 
The least make vocal, eloquent to teach. 

Another is Rembrandt's well-known 
"Lesson in Anatomy," which he inserts 
with the description, beginning thus : 

The subject Muscles — girded to fulfill 
The lightning mandates of the sovereign Will — 
Th' abounding means of motion, wherein lurk 
Man's infinite capacity for work. 

A third is "Harvey Demonstrating to 
Charles I. his theory of the Circulation 
of the Blood" : 

Make room, my Heart! that pour'st thyself 

abroad. 
Deep, central, awful mystery of God ! 

Well may he be called the Physician- 
Poet! He received the degree of A. M. 
from Rutgers College. In i860 he received 
the degree of Ph.D. from Lewisburg Uni- 
versity, and that of LL.D. from Princeton 
College in 1871. 



Dr. Coles had reached such a vigorous 
old age as still to promise many years of 
life. In the early Spring (1891), he had 
the prevailing influenza, which left him 
with a cough, and some mild symptoms 
which puzzled him, as they have so many 
others, but which seemed to give no occa- 
sion for alarm. As a recreation, he pro- 
posed a trip to California with his son and 
daughter and a sister-in-law. They left 
home April 14th. The trip was a disap- 
pointing one, for, although his powerful 
constitution enabled him to go everywhere, 
his cough defied all treatment, and by rea- 
son thereof he grew weaker instead of 
stronger. After a week's stay at the beau- 
tiful Hotel del Monte, California, where 
he received every possible courtesy and at- 
tention, heart complication suddenly set in 
as a sequel to la grippe. Unable to recline, 
he calmly realized the serious nature of his 
symptoms, and with words of Christian 
faith and love, passed away, (May 3d, 
1891), to be, as one of his own hymns so 
well expresses it — "Ever, my Lord, with 
Thee." 

The funeral of Dr. Coles took place in 
the commodious Peddie Memorial Church, 
Newark, New Jersey, May 29th, and was 
largely attended by his medical and literary 
friends and those in other walks of life 
who had known him in the various relations 
he had sustained. Appreciatory letters 
were received by his family from the Uni- 
versities of Oxford and Cambridge, Eng- 
land ; from the Royal Society, London ; 
from the Academie des Sciences, Paris ; 
from the home of Tennyson, Isle of Wight ; 
from the Executive Mansion, Washington, 
D. C. ; from James Russell Lowell ; Oliver 
Wendell Holmes and others. 

The appropriate rendering of Dr. Coles' 
following hymns by Prof. Bauman, organ- 
ist, and Mr. Sauvage and the choir, added 
solemnity to the occasion, and emphasis to 
the many tributes to Dr. Coles's earnest 
Qiristian life : 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



"EVER MY LORD WITH THEE." 
Tune — "Bethany." 
Ever, my Lord, with Thee, 

Ever with Thee ! 
Through all eternity 
Thy face to see ! 
I count this Heaven to be 
Ever, my Lord, with Thee ! 

Fair is Jerusalem, 

All of pure gold. 
Garnished with many a gem 

Of worth untold ; 
I only ask, to be 
Ever, my Lord, with Thee, 

Ever with Thee ! 

River of Life there flows 

As crystal clear ; 
The Tree of Life there grows 

For healing near ; 
But this crowns all. to be 
Ever, my Lord, with Thee, 

Ever with Thee ! 

No curse is there, no night. 

No grief, no fear; 
Thy smile fills Heaven with light, 

Dries every tear; 
What rapture, then to be 
Ever, my Lord, with Thee, 

Ever with Thee ! 

•■ALL THE DAYS." 
Original music by W. F. Sherwin. 

From Thee, begetting sure conviction, 
Sound out, O risen Lord ! always, 

Those faithful words of valediction 
"Lo! I am with you all the days." 

RlFR.\IN. 

"Lo ! I am with you all the days," 

All the days, All the days. 
"Lo ! I am with you all the days." 

What things shall happen on the morrow, 
Thou kindly hidest from our gaze : 

But tellest us in joy or sorrow, 
"Lo! I am with you all the days." 

Refrain. 

When round our head the tempest rages, 
And sink our feet in miry ways ; 

Thy voice comes floating down the ages 
"Lo! I am with you all the days." 

Refrain. 

O Thou who art our life and meetness, 
Not death shall daunt us nor amaze, 



Hearing those words of power and sweetness, 
"Lo ! I am with you all the days." 

Refrain. 

JESU DULCIS MEMORIA (BERNARD OF 
CLAIRVAUX.) 

Tune — Emmanuel — Ludwig Von Beethoven 

(Translation by Abraham Coles). 

The memory of Jesus' Name 

Is past expression sweet : 
At each dear mention hearts aflame 

With quicker pulses beat ! 

But sweet above all sweetest things 

Creation can afford. 
That sweetness which His presence brings. 

The vision of the Lord. 

Sweeter than His dear Name is naught ; 

None worthier of laud. 
Was ever sung, or heard, or thought. 

Than Jesus, Son of God. 

Thou hope, to those of contrite heart ; 

To those who ask, how kind ! 
To those who seek, how good Thou art ! 

But what to those who find? 

No heart is able to conceive, 

Nor tongue, nor pen e.xpress ; 
Who tries it only can believe 

How choice that blessedness ! 

"HERE ARE PARTINGS AND PAINFUL 
FAREWELLS." 

Tune — "The Sweet By and By." 

Here are partings and painful farewells 
.^nd the sundering of tenderest ties ; 

In that Heavenly Land where He dwells, 
God shall wipe away tears from all eyes — 

Chorus. 
"In the sweet by and by 
We shall meet on that beautiful shore." 

Here the pilgrim can scarcely discern 
The reward for the tears that he sheds ; 

But the ransomed with songs shall return 
With perpetual joy on their heads — 

Chorus. 
"In the sweet by and by 
We shall meet on that beautiful shore." 

The interment was by the side of his 
wife, in Willow Grove Cemetery, New 
Brunswick, New Jersey. The grave is 









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The: Coles Homestead 

NO. 222 MARKET STREET. N E WA R K, N E W J E R S E Y 

1842 — 19 15 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



designated by a granite monolith bearing 
a bronze medallion portrait of Dr. Coles. 

This sketch would be incomplete with- 
out some fuller allusion to his literary la- 
bors, and to the marked traits of his char- 
acter. 

Soon after he settled in Newark, he be- 
came a contributor to the "Newark Daily 
Advertiser," and early showed an interest 
in education, in a public library, in temper- 
ance movements, and in all objects looking 
to the welfare of society. Rarely attending 
any public meetings, he gave expression to 
his views in an occasional address, and in 
the columns of the daily journals. 

In poetry and prose, his literary taste 
and learning soon came to be recognized, 
and he had a local reputation long before he 
was more generally known.* It was, per- 
haps, his first translation of "Dies Irse" 
(1847), that we here quote, that arrested 
the attention of linguists and scholars 
throughout the world. It was a difficult 
task to undertake, as there were several 
versifications ©f it by authors of classical 
note and learning. As he followed it, from 
time to time, with sixteen other versions, it 
was seen what opulence of resource was at 
his command. 

DIES IRAE. 

Translation published March 17, 1847, (in the 
Newark Daily Advertiser). 

Day of wrath, that day of burning. 
All shall melt, to ashes turning, 
As foretold by seers discerning. 

O what fear shall it engender 

When the Judge shall come in splendor. 

Strict to mark and just to render. 

Trumpet scattering sounds of wonder, 
Rending sepiilchers asunder, 
Shall resistless summons thunder. 



*The catalogues of many of the libraries of 
Europe, especially those of Oxford and Cam- 
bridge, England, show the possession of one or 
more of the published works of Dr. Abraham 
Coles. 



All aghast then Death shall shiver 
And great Nature's frame shall quiver. 
When the graves their dead deliver. 

Book where every act's recorded, 

.-Ml events all time afforded, 

Shall be brought and dooms awarded. 

When shall sit the Judge unerring, 
He'll unfold all here occurring. 
No just vengeance then deferring. 

What shall I say that time pending? 
Ask what Advocate's befriending 
When the just man needs defending? 

King almighty and all knowing, 
Grace to sinners freely showing 
Save me. Fount of good o'erflowing. 

Think, O Jesus, for what reason 

Thou endurest earth's spite and treason, 

Nor me lose in that dread season. 

Seeking me Thy worn feet hasted, 
On the cross Thy soul death tasted, 
Let such labor not be wasted. 

Righteous Judge of retribution, 
Grant me perfect absolution 
Ere that day of execution. 

Culprit-like, I, heart all broken. 

On my cheek shame's crimson token. 

Plead the pardoning word be spoken. 

Thou who Mary gav'st remission, 
Heard'st the dying Thief's petition, 
Oicer'st with hope my lost condition. 

Though my prayers do nothing merit, 
What is needful, Thou confer it, 
Lest I endless fire inherit. 

Mid the sheep a place decide me. 
And from goats on left divide me. 
Standing on the right beside Thee. 

When th' accursed away are driven. 

In eternal burnings given, 

Call me with the bless'd to Heav'n. 

I beseech Thee, prostrate lying. 
Heart as ashes, contrite, sighing. 
Care for me when I am dying. 

On that awful day of wailing 
Human destinies unveiling, 
When man rising stands before Thee, 
Spare the culprit; God of Glory. 

Rev. Dr. Philip Schaff, in his recent 
work, "Literature and Poetry," says, "A 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



physician, Abraham Coles, has made of the 
Dies Irae' seventeen versions, which show 
a rare fertiUty and versatiHty, and illustrate 
the possibilities of versification without al- 
tering the sense." "In the eleventh stanza 
of his first translation of 1847, he had an- 
ticipated Irons, Peries, Dix and Mills. * 
* * Other rhymes are borrowed from 
Dr. Coles." 

His translations of various other Latin 
hymns, as contained in his volume, "Latin 
Hymns with Original Translations," will 
ever be the admiration of scholars. "The 
Evangel," and "The Light of the World.' 
give the Gospel story of our Lord in verse, 
with notes full of devotion and learning. 
His great love to Christ was his crowning 
excellence. 

John G. Whittier says : "Dr. Coles is a 
born hymn writer. He has left us, as a leg- 
acy of inestimable worth, some of the 
sweetest of Christian hymns. His 'All the 
Days' and his 'Ever with Thee' are immor- 
tal songs. It is better to have written them 
than the stateliest of epics. No man living 
or dead has so rendered the text and tne 
spirit of the old and wonderful Latin 
hymns." 

While these studies show his profound 
learning in the Greek and Latin languages. 
it is only when we look to the studies of 
his last years, in "A New Rendering of the 
Hebrew Psalms into English Verse." that 
we come to know of his knowledge of Ori- 
ental languages ; of the vast realms of schol- 
arship he had explored. But his stately and 
commanding prose has almost been obscur- 
ed by his poetry. The marvel of all his books 
is in their introductions and notes. Whole 
folios of recondite learning are opened up 
in modest foot-notes, and the reader knows 
he is in company with one who has been 
delving and digging in the richest mines of 
unexplored knowledge. His sharp, quick 
sentences of introduction, and the grasp 
which he shows of his theme, are at once 
an admiration and a surprise. 

His style has individuality as much as 



that of Dr. Johnson or of Thomas Carlyle. 
One constantly sees how thoughts sublime 
find expression in terse and stately senten- 
ces, and how words are chosen such as 
come out of the depths of inspiration and 
genius. There is not conformity to the 
style of any favorite author, or to the modes 
of thought of any formal logician, but a 
forging of weighty words, wrought out 
from the depths of great inner feelings and 
conceptions. Others will more fully ana- 
lyze these mementoes of his greatness, but 
we, as physicians, may well linger in admir- 
ation, and rejoice that one of our own Soci- 
ety should have thus adorned a literature 
already rich in contributions from those 
educated in medical science, and proficient 
in medical art. 

But the crown of all was his wonderful 
character. He did everything with con- 
scientious precision and thoroughness : he 
was always after the depth of things. How 
he would sometimes work over the word- 
ing of a line, and then over a note that 
brought out its fullest meaning. So, too, 
he worked in his profession. 

His respectful bearing toward all had its 
seat in a profound reverence. He was rev- 
erent of humanity because of his intense 
reverence for God and all His works. He 
studied nature and the Bible and the inner 
consciousness of the spiritual life with the 
same majestic, adoring insight. He was not 
religious by an effort. "I have," says Dr. 
Oliver Wendell Holmes, "always consider- 
ed it a great privilege to enjoy the friend- 
ship of so pure and lofty a spirit; a man 
who seemed to breathe holiness as his na- 
tive atmosphere, and to carry its influences 
into his daily life." 

Had he not been a poet, he would have 
been painter, or musical composer, because 
in no other way could his adoring enthus- 
iasm have found symmetrical expression. 

When he issued a book, its typographical 
execution must be complete. He visited the 
great picture galleries of Europe, and at 
large expense selected the choicest speci- 



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CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



mens of ancient art to illustrate his themcj. 
These gave expression to his character not 
less than to his taste. 

When he wrote hymns it was because the 
inner music of his soul had to be set to met- 
rical expression. He was a genius, but it 
was chiefly character and life that flowed 
out through his writings. 

He became familiar with little children 
easier than with all others, because in them 
he saw more of nature, and more of faith, 
hope and charity. 

He believed in his profession, because 
in it he realized the possibilities of high 
science and applied art for the uses of hu- 
manity, and so could be co-worker with 
the Great Physician who went about doing 
good. We cherish his memory because we 
cherish skill, character, usefulness, and re- 
joice in having such a model. Such lives 
do not die, but live as incentives for those 
of all the ages. We cannot reach his fame, 
but we can imitate his devotion to knowl- 
edge, his reverence for life and goodness, 
his desire for usefulness, his holy faith, 
his humble affection for the good, the beau- 
tiful, the true. 

The invaluable large painting that hangs 
in the State House at Trenton, New Jer- 
sey, has a very interesting history, as re- 
corded in the following letter of March 29, 
1897, addressed to the Hon. John W.Griggs, 
LL.D., while Governor of New Jersey, by 
Dr. J. A. Coles, in which he says : 

"I am the owner of the celebrated oil painting. 
known as 'The Good Samaritan,' by our distin- 
guished American artist Daniel Huntington. The 
picture, with its frame, measures about nine feet 
in width, by eleven feet in height. It was exe- 
cuted by Daniel Huntington in his studio in Paris, 
France, in the years 1852-3. in illustration of the 
second great commandment of the Law, 'Thou 
shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.' Here, with 
wonderful skill, is vividly portrayed the arrival 
at the inn, and the respectful attention given to 
the orders of 'The Good Samaritan.' Mr. Hunt- 
ington informs me that while engaged on this 
painting he was visited in his studio by Paul Dela- 
roche, the eminent historical painter of France, 
who took a deep interest in the progress of his 



work, and by friendly suggestions as to detail, 
color, etc., rendered him much assistance, a cir- 
cumstance which adds immensely to the value of 
this picture, as it may be regarded as the joint 
work of these two great master minds. After its 
completion, requiring several months, it was af- 
ter attracting much attention in Paris, sent to 
this country, exhibited at the National Academy, 
then on Broadway, and formed one of the chief 
attractions at the Sanitary Fair Exhibition of 
Paintings held in Fourteenth Street, New York 
City, during the late civil war. 

"Mr. Huntington, having learned that I con- 
templated giving this picture through you to the 
people of New Jersey, in memory of my father, 
wrote to me a few weeks ago, suggesting that I 
should first send the canvas to his studio, in New 
York City, and leave it with him for a month, in 
order that he might r.;touch and restore any in- 
juries done to it by the hand of time. This I have 
done and Mr. Huntington has not only gone over 
the whole canvas, but has. at the suggestion and 
request of friends, introduced a portrait of him- 
self, as the host of the inn. a very valuable addi- 
tion. I have, also, had the artistic and beautiful 
frame relaid with the best of gold leaf. 

"Upon receipt of word from you that as a gift, 
the painting will be acceptable to the State I will. 
as soon as practicable, at my own expense, send 
it to Trenton, and have it hung in the place 
deemed most suitable for its reception in the cap- 
itol, a building associated with pleasant meetings 
therein of my father, the late Abraham Coles, 
M. D., Ph. D., LL. D., with his friends, some of 
whom are still living, while the portraits of others 
adorn the walls. It is with special pride I recall 
the recorded words of the late Governor Haines, 
and those of the late Henry Woodhull Green. 
Qiief Justice and Chancellor, who in referring to 
the life and writings of Dr. Abraham Coles, af- 
firm that 'to him the world owes a debt of grati- 
tude for his labor and research, which redound to 
the honor of our State.' Awaiting your reply, I 
am with great respect. Yours sincerely, 

J. .A. Coles. 

Governor Griggs' reply was as follows : 

"State of New Jersey, Executive Department 
Dr. J. Ackerman Coles : 

"My Dear Sir : — I have the honor to acknowl- 
edge the receipt of your esteemed favor of the 
29th inst., tending to the State of New Jersey, the 
painting known as the "The Good Samaritan." I 
assure you nothing would delight me more than 
to accept at your hands such a valuable gift on 
behalf of the people of the State. The picture 
will be accorded the best hanging that can be se- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



lected for it in the State House. Permit me to 
say that your generosity and goodness to" your 
native State are deserving of the highest appre- 
ciation on behalf of the people, and when the pic- 
ture shall have been received, I hope to express to 
you in a more formal way. the thanks and grati- 
tude of the Executive for your generous donation. 
Whenever it shall suit your convenience to for- 
ward the picture, it will be received and cared for 
with all the consideration it deserves. 
"Very sincerely your, 

"John W. Griggs, Governor." 

A special to the "New York Sun," dated 
Trenton, June ii. 1897, said: "David 
Huntington's painting, 'The Good Samari- 
tan,' was removed to the Capitol this morn- 
ing." "Harper's Weekly" referred to New 
Jersey as getting "an admirable painting in 
memory of a good and distinguished citi 
zen." 

From the librarian, Mr. Ainsworth 
Rand Spofford, LL.D., Dr. J. A. Coles 
received the following letter : 

"Library of Congress. Washington, D. C. 
"Dear Sir : — 1 have your much esteemed favor. 
proffering as a gift a life size bronze bust of 
Washington by Houdon, to be preserved in the 
new library building in memory of your father. 
This generous offer is fully appreciated and will 
be communicated to the joint committee of both 
houses of Congress on the Library when organ- 
ized. Meanwhile, I am authorized to receive the 
gift to be assigned an honorable and appropri- 
ate place in the new building of the Library of 
Congress now completed. Permit me to express 
my high sense of the literary value of Dr. Abra- 
ham Coles' fine translations of Latin mediaeval 
hymns and other works." 

'"To the Hall of Marble Statuary in the 
l^Ietropolitan Museum of Art, New York," 
the "New York Evangelist" says : 

"Dr. J. Ackerman Coles, of Newark, who has 
added so largely to the art treasures of his na- 
tive city, has made a couple of valuable memorial 
gifts. One gift is the famous statue, known as 
'The Promised Land,' executed in Carrara marble 
by the celebrated American sculptor. Franklin 
Simmons, .it Rome. Italy, in 1874. A beautiful 
ideal life-size female figure, gracefully robed, is 
desip:ned to represent the earnest longing of the 
spirit for 'The Promised Land.' 'The Better Coun- 
try,' 'The Celestial City of Zion.' Upon the plinth 
of the statue, which rests upon an elegantly pan- 



eled octagonal pedestal of dark Spanish marble 
are inscribed four lines of the mediaeval Latirt 
hymn "Urbs Coelestis Sion' by St. Bernard of 
Cluny, with its translation by the late Dr. Abra- 
ham Coles ; the hymn and the translation being 
well known to scholars throughout the literary 
world. Daniel Huntington, the second Vice-Presi- 
dent of the Museum and Chairman of the Com- 
mittee on Sculpture, in recommending its accept- 
ance as a gift by the board of trustees, wrote 'I 
am greatly pleased with the statue.' It has a re- 
fined and spiritual character, as well as artistic 
grace and beauty.' 

"The other memorial gift is a Carrara marble 
copy by P. Barzanto of Florence, Italy, of the an- 
tique statue 'Venus de Medici,' it being one of the 
very few signed copies ever executed in marble, 
other copies possessed by museums of art being 
plaster casts. The original statue, it will be re- 
membered, was found in the seventeenth century, 
and was taken to Rome, and deposited in the Me- 
dici Palace, whence it took its name. About the 
year 1680 it was carried by order of Cosmo III to 
Florence. In 1796 Napoleon Bonaparte sent it, 
with other works of art to France, and had it 
placed in the Louvre at Paris. Here it remained 
until 181 5. when it was returned to Italy, and is 
now the chief treasure in the Tribune of the Uf- 
fizi gallery at Florence. It is of Parian marble, 
and was executed by Cleomenes, the Athenian, 
the son of Apollodorus, who flourished between' 
200 to 150 B. C. From its exquisite proportions 
and perfection of contour, it has become the most 
celebrated standard of female form extant. The 
following rules obtained by measurements of 
Greek statues are adopted by sculptors. "First — 
As to height, tastes differ, but the Venus de Med- 
ici is about five feet and five inches in height. 
This is held by many sculptors and artists to be 
the most admirable stature for a woman. For a 
woman of this height, one hundred and thirty- 
eight pounds is the proper weight, and if she be 
well formed she can stand another ten pounds 
without greatly showing it. When her arms are 
extended, she should measure from tip of middle 
linger to tip of middle finger just five feet and 
five inches, exactly her own height. The length 
of her hand should be just a tenth of that, and her 
foot just a seventh, and the diameter of her chest 
a fifth. From her thighs to the ground she should' 
measure just what she measures from the thighs 
to the top of the head. The knee should come ex- 
actly midway between the thigh and the heel. The 
distance from the elbow to the middle finger 
should be the same as the distance from the el- 
bow to the middle of the chest. From the top of 
the head to the chin should be just the length of 
the foot, and there should be the same distance- 



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CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



between the chin and the armpits. The waist 
measures twenty-four inches, and the bust thirty 
four inches, if measured under the arms, and 
forty-three if over them. The upper arm should 
measure thirteen inches and the wrist six. The 
calf of the leg should measure fourteen and one- 
half inches, the thigh twenty-five and the ankle 
eight. There is another system of measurements 
which says that the distance twice around the 
thumb, should go once around the wrist ; twice 
around the wrist once around the throat; twice 
around the throat, once around the waist, and so 
on. 

"As for coloring and shape, here is the code 
laid down by the Arabs, who say that a woman 
should have these things : black hair, eyebrows, 
lashes and pupils ; white skin, teeth, and globe of 
the eye ; red tongue, lips and cheeks ; round 
head, neck, arms, ankles and waist ; long back, 
fingers, arms and limbs ; large forehead, eyes and 
lips ; narrow eyebrows, nose and feet ; small ears, 
bust and hands." 

The copy, with its marble pedestal like 
the one owned by the Duke of Devonshire, 
at Chatsworth, England, is pure white with- 
out flaw or blemish and is an invaluable ad- 
dition to the Museum of Art. Soon after 
its proffer to the Museum, General Louis 
P. D. Cesnola, secretary and director, wrote 
to Dr. Coles: 

"I have the honor to inform you that upon the 
recommendation of the committee on sculpture, 
the Trustees of the Metropolitan Museum of Art 
have accepted your gift, and have instructed their 
executive committee to convey to you an expres- 
sion of their thanks for your generosity. In do- 
ing so I may be permitted to add that their thanks 
will be constantly hereafter repeated by the people 
to whose enjoyment and instruction the Museum 
of Art is devoted, and to which your gift is a 
valuable contribution. With high regards, I re- 
main, very sincerely yours." 

In appreciation of these gifts Dr. Coles 
was elected a Fellow of The Metropolitan 
Museum of Art. 

By means of the gift of the shares of 
stock of the Newark Library Association 
owned by Dr. Abraham Coles, and given in 
his memory by his son, the New Jersey 
Historical Society secured control and own- 
ership of its present handsome brick and 



stone building on Park street, Newark, New 
Jersey. 

As regards "The Microcosm,'" frotn which 
work we give a few extracts, "The Newark 
Daily Advertiser" says : 

"The Microcosm is the only book of the kind 
in the language, and is well deserving a place in 
every library, and might, we think, moreover, be 
introluced with advantage into all schools where 
physiology is taught as an adjunct, if nothing else, 
to stimulate interest, and relieve the dryness of 
ordinary text books. In lines of flowing and easy 
verse, the author sets forth with a completeness 
certainly remarkable, and with great power and 
beauty, the incomparable marvels of structure and 
function of the human body." 

MAN SUPREME. 

O thou, made up of every creature's best, 
The summing up and monarch of the rest! 
Thy high-raised cranium, — vaulted to contain 
The big and billowy and powerful brain. 
While that a scanty thimbleful, no more, 
Belongs to such as swim or creep or soar ; 
Thy form columnar, sky-ward looking face,* 
Majestic mien, intelligence and grace. 
Thy foot's firm tread, and gesture of thy hand 
Proclaim thee ruler, destined to command. 
A little lower than the angels made. 
Dominion, glory, worship on thee laid, 
I praise not thee, but honor and applaud 
The handiwork and masterpiece of God. 
Fearful and wonderful, and all divine. 
Where two worlds mingle, and two lives com- 
bine — 
A dual body, and a dual soul, 
Touching eternity at either pole— 
The tides of being, circling swift or slow. 
'Tween mystic banks that ever overflow, 
Exist not severed from the Fountain-head, 
But whence they rise, eternally are fed : 
Our springs are all in God ; from Him we drink. 
Live, move, and have our being, feel and think. 

FLESH GARMENT— SKIN, ITS MORAL 
CHARACTER. 
How beautiful, and delicate, and fresh, 
Appear the Soul's Habiliments of Flesh ! 
How closely fitting, easy yet, and broad, 
Each Tissue woven in the loom of God! 
Compared with that magnificence of dress. 
Wherewith is clothed the Spirit's nakedness, 



*"Pronaque cum spectant animalia caetera terram, 
Os homini sublime dedit : ccelumque videre 
Jussit, et erectos ad sidera tollere vultus." — Ovid. 



II 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



O how contemptible and mean a thing. 
The purple and fine linen of a king! 
The spotless vesture of the silky Skin, 
Outside of all, and covering all within, 
With what a marvellous and matchless grace. 
Is it disposed and moulded to eacTi place; 
Bounding and beautifying brow and breast, 
A crowning loveliness to all the rest! 
Endowed with wondrous properties of soul 
That interpenetrate and fill the whole — 
A. raiment, moral, maidenly and white. 
Shamed at each breach of decency and right. 
Where dwells a charm above the charms of sense, 
Suggestive of the soul's lost innocence. 

PATHOGNOMY. 

Who has not seen that Feeling, born of flame. 
Crimson the cheek at mention of a name? 
The rapturous touch of some divine surprise 
Flash deep suffusion of celestial dyes ; 
When hands clasped hands, and lips to lips were 

pressed. 
And the heart's secret was at once confessed? 

VOLUNTARY MUSCLES. 

The subject Muscles — *girded to fulfil 
The lightning mandates of the sovereign Will — 
Th' abounding means of motion, wherein lurk 
Man's infinite capacity for work ; 
By which, as taste or restless nature bids. 
He rears the Parthenon or Pyramids ; 
In high achievements of the plastic art, 
Fulfils th' ambitious purpose of his heart; 
Creates a grace outrivaling his own. 
Charming all eyes — the poetry of stone; 
Symbols his faith, as in Cathedrals — vast 
Religious petrifactions of the Past : 
Covers the land with cities ; makes all seas 
White with the sails of countless argosies ; 
Pushes the ocean back with all her waves. 
And from her haughty sway a kingdom saves ; 
Tunnels high mountains, Erebus unbars, 
And through it rolls the thunder of his cars ; 
With stalwart arm, defends down-trodden right, 
And, like a whirlwind, sweeps the field of fight ; 
And when, at last, the war is made to cease, 



*Some authors reckon the number of Muscles 
in the Human Body as high as 527. They have 
been divided into Voluntary (forming the red 
flesh, or the main bulk of the body) ; Involuntary, 
such as the heart, fleshy fibres of the stomach, 
etc.: and Mixed, such as the muscles of respira- 
tion, etc. Each Muscle is made up of an indefi- 
nite number of fibres, which may be considered as 
so many muscles in miniature, along which stream 
the currents of the Will. Yet with all this com- 
plex apparatus everything is in harmony. 



On firm foundations stablishes a peace; 

Then barren wastes with nodding harvests sows, 

And makes the desert blossom as the rose. 

MUSCULAR DYNAMICS — DIRECTING 
POWER WHERE? 

Bundles of fleshy fibres without end, 
Along the bony Skeleton extend 
In thousand-fold directions from fixed points 
To act their several parts upon the Joints ; 
Adjustments nice of means to ends we trace. 
With each dynamic filament in place; 
But Where's the Hand that grasps the million 

reins 
Directs and guides them, quickens or restrains? 

See the musician, at his fingers' call, 
All sweet sounds scatter, fast as rain-drops fall; 
With flying touch, he weaves the web of song. 
Rhythmic as rapid, intricate as long. 
Whence this precision, delicacy and ease? 
And Where's the Master that defines the keys? 

The many-jointed Spine, with link and lock 
To make it flexible while secure from shock. 
Is pierced throughout, in order to contain 
The downward prolongation of the brain ; 
From which, by double roots, the Nerves* arise — 
One Feeling gives, one Motive Power supplies ; 
In opposite directions, side by side. 
With mighty swiftness there two currents glide — 
Winged, head and heel, the Mercuries of Sensej- 
Mount to the regions of Intelligence ; 



*For the benefit of the general reader, presum- 
ably not familiar with anatomical details, we may 
state that there are 43 pairs of nerves in all, i. e. 
12 Cranial or Encephalic and 31 Spinal. The first 
have only one root in the brain, whilst the latter 
arise by two roots from the anterior and posterior 
halves of the spinal marrow, but unite immediate- 
ly afterwards to form one nerve. Division of the 
anterior root causes loss of motion — of the pos- 
terior the loss of sensation. The first transmit vo- 
litions from the brain, the latter sensitive impres- 
sions to the brain. 

•j-Helmholtz has instituted experiments to de- 
termine the rapidity of transmission of the ner- 
vous actions. For sensation the rate of movement 
assigned is one hundred and eighty to three hun- 
dred feet per second. Muscular contraction, or 
shortening of the muscular fibre, takes place, at 
times, with extreme velocity; a single thrill, in 
the letter R., can be pronounced in the i-30,oooth 
part of a minute. There are insects whose wings 
strike the air thousands of times in a minute. The 
force of contraction (Myodynamis) is most re- 
markable in some of these. In birds, the absolute 
power in proportion to the weight of the body is 
as 10.000 to I. 



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CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Instant as light, the nuncios of the throne 
Command the Muscles that command the Bone. 

Each morning after slumber, brave and fresh, 
The Moving Army of the Crimson Flesh, 
From fields of former conquests, marching comes 
To the grand beating of unnumbered drums — § 
Each martial Fibre pushing to the van 
To make "I will" the equal of "I can" ; 
Testing the possibilities of power 
In deeds of daring suited to the hour ; 
Doing its utmost to build up the health 
And glory of the inner Commonwealth. 

Levers and fulcra everywhere we find. 
But Where's the great Archimedean Mind, 
That on some pou STO,* outside and above, 
Plants its firm foot this living world to move ? 

CRANIUM— SOUL'S FIRMAMENT— BRAIN 

Find it we shall, if anywhere we can. 
Doubtless, in that high Capitol of man, 
Whose Spheric Walls, concentric to the cope. 
Were built to match the nature of his Hope. 
What seems the low vault of a narrow tomb. 
Is the Soul's sky, where it has ample room ; 
As apt through this, its crystalline, to pass. 
As though it were diaphanous as glass. 
When Sense is dark, it is not dark, but light. 
Itself a sun, that banishes the night. 
Shedding a morning, beauteous to see, 
On the horizon of Eternity. 
Strange, a frail link and manacle of Brain 
So long below suffices to detain 
A principle, so radiant and high. 
So restless, strong, and fitted for the sky. 

HEARING— POWERS OF SOUND— MUSIC 
OF NATURE. 

Within a bony labyrinthean cave, 
Reached by the pulse of the aerial wave, 
This sibyl, sweet, and mystic Sense is found. 
Muse, that presides o'er all the Powers of Sound. 
Viewless and numberless, these everywhere 
Wake to the finest tremble of the air ; 
Now from some mountain height are heard to 

call; 
Now from the bottom of some waterfall ; 
Now faint and far, now louder and more near, 
With varying cadence musical and clear ; 
Heard in the brooklet murmuring o'er the lea; 
Heard in the roar of the resounding sea ; 
Heard in the thunder rolling through the sky ; 
Heard in the little insect chirping nigh ; 



§The heart and arteries. 

*Archimedes used to say, "Give a place where 
I may stand (dos pou sto) and I can move the 
world." 



The winds of winter wailing through the woods; 

The mighty laughter of the vernal floods; 

The rain-drops' showery dance and rhythmic 

beat, 
With twinkling of innumerable feet; 
Pursuing echoes calling 'mong the rocks; 
Lowing of herds, and bleating of the flocks; 
The tender nightingale's melodious grief; 
The sky-lark's warbled rapture of belief — 
Arrow of praise, direct from Nature's quiver, 
Sent duly up to the Almighty Giver. 

WOMAN— SEX— UNITY IN DIFFERENCE. 

O loving Woman, man's fulfillment sweet, 
Completing him not otherwise complete! 
How void and useless the sad remnant left 
Were he of her, his nobler part bereft ! 
Of her who bears the sacred name of Wife, 
The joy and crown and glory of his life. 
The Mother of his Children, whereby he 
Shall live in far off epochs yet to be. 
Conjoined but not confounded, side by side 
Lying so closely nothing can divide; 
A dual self, a plural unit, twain. 
Except in sex, to be no more again ; 
Except in Sex — for sex can nought efface, 
Fixed as the granite mountain on its base — 
But not for this less one, away to take 
This sweet distinction were to mar not make. 
Dearer for diiiference in this respect, 
As means of rounding mutual defect. 
Woman and Man all social needs include; 
Earth filled with men were still a solitude. 
In vain the birds would sing, in vain rejoice. 
Without the music of her sweeter voice. 
In vain the stars would shine, 'twere dark the 

while 
Without the light of her superior smile. 
To blot from earth's vocabularies one 
Of all her names were to blot out the sun. 

LOVE OF THE SEXES— ENDS ANS'WERED 

O wondrous Hour, supremest hour of fate, 
When first the Soul discerns its proper Mate, 
By inward voices known as its elect — 
Distanced by love, and infinite respect. 
Fairer than fairest, shining from afar. 
Throned in the heights, a bright particular star 
The glory of the firmament, the evening sky 
Glad with the lustre of her beaming eye. 
Young Love, First Love, Love, haply, at First 

Sight, 
Smites like the lightning, dazzles like the light; 
Chance meeting eyes shoot forth contagious 

flame. 
Sending the hot blood wildly through the frame. 
By strange enchantment violently strook, 



13 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



The total being rushes with a lcx)k ; 

A beauty never seen before, except some gleams 

Purpling the atmosphere of blissful dreams, 

Wakens rare raptures and sensations new, 

Both soul and body thrilling through and through. 

Says sage Experience, sighing o'er the past. 
These dear illusions will not always last ; 
For beauty fades and disappointment clings 
To the reality of human things. 
It may be so — it may be, lover's sight 
Surveying all things by love's purple light. 
Sees not the faults possession shall disclose, 
Nor the sharp thorn concealed beneath the rose. 
But if thus Nature her great ends attain 
The pomps of fancy dazzle not in vain. 
The pleasing falsehood of perfection flits. 
But not the Love, that in contentment sits 
Among the Dear Ones of its happy Home, 
Blest with sweet foretastes of the Heaven to 

come. 
Deciduous charms of face unmissed depart, 
While bloom the fadeless beauties of the heart; 
Inward conformity, and gradual growth 
Of moral likeness, tightening bonds of both. 
Perfect the marriage, which was but begun 
Upon that day they were pronounced one. 

TRUE LOVE. 

Let Love but enter, it converts the churl. 
And makes the miser lavish as an earl; 
The strict walls of his prison, giving way. 
Fall outward and let in the light of day ; 
Released from base captivity to pelf. 
He upwards soars into a nobler self; 
And hands, that once did nought but clutch and 

hoard 
Now emulate the bounty of the Lord ; 
Hold up a mirror, that reflects the face 
Of Him whose heart is love and man-ward grace. 

On the afternoon of July 5, 1897, Mayor 
Seymour presiding, there was unveiled in 
Washington Park, Newark, New Jersey, 
the heroic size bronze portrait bust of Dr. 
Abraham Coles, the work of the peerless 
sculptor John Quincy Adams Ward. The 
pedestal consists of a monolith of imperial 
granite, which has for its base a granite 
boulder weighing about seven tons, which 
was obtained for the purpose at much ex- 
pense and trouble from near the landing 
place of the Pilgrim Fathers at Plymouth, 
Massachusetts. The whole is enclosed by 
monoliths of Quincy granite, fourteen feet 
long, bolted into corner posts from near the 



Sea of Tiberias, Galilee, Palestine, obtain- 
ed through the courtesy and agency of the 
Rev. Edwin T. Wallace, A. M., our consul 
at Jerusalem. On the front face of the ped- 
estal, cast in bronze, is the following hymn 
by Dr. Coles : — 

THE ROCK OF AGES. 

Isaiah xxvi — 4. 

A National Song of Praise. 

Let us to Jehovah raise 
Glad and grateful songs of praise. 
Let the people with one voice 
In the Lord their God rejoice! 
For His mercy standeth fast 
And from age to age doth last. 

He across untraversed seas 
Guided first the Genoese, 
Here prepared a dwelling place 
For a freedom loving race ; 
For His mercy standeth fast 
And from age to age doth last. 

Filled the land the red man trod 
With the worshipers of God ; 
When oppression forged the chain 
Nerved their hands to rend in twain. 
For His mercy standeth fast 
And from age to age dost last. 

Gave them courage to declare 
What to do and what to dare; 
Made them victors over wrong 
In the battle with the strong. 
For His mercy standeth fast 
And from age to age doth last. 

'Midst the terror of the fight. 
Kept them steadfast in the right; 
Taught their statesmen how to plan 
To conserve the Rights of man. 
For His mercy standeth fast 
And from age to age doth last. 

Needful skill and wisdom lent 
To establish Government. 
Laid foundations resting still 
On the granite of His will. 
For His mercy standeth fast 
And from age to age doth last. 

Wiped the scandal and the sin 
From the color of the skin ; 
Now o'er all, from sea to sea 
Floats the Banner of the Free. 
For His mercy standeth fast 
And from age to age doth last. 



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CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Praise the Lord for freedom won 
And the Gospel of His Son ; 
Praise the Lord, His Name adore 
All ye people evermore! 
For His mercy standeth fast 
And from age to age doth last. 

The bronze tablet on the Plymouth Rock 
has a quotation from a treatise of Dr. 
Coles on Law in its relation to Christian- 
ity, and reads : — 

The State, although it does not formulate its 
faith, is distinctly Christian. Christianity, general, 
tolerant Christianity, is a part of the law of the 
land. Reverence for law is indissolubly interwoven 
with reverence for God. The State accepts the Deca- 
logue, and builds upon it. As right presupposes 
a standard, it assumes that this is such a stand- 
ard, divinely given and accepted by all Christen- 
dom ; that it underlies all civil society, is the 
foundation of the foundation, is lower than all 
and higher than all ; commends itself to reason, 
speaks with authority to the conscience, vindi- 
cates itself in all government, giving it stability 
and exalting it in righteousness. 

"The exercises were begun," says the 
"Newark Daily Advertiser," "by the band 
playing and the large a.'^semblage singing 
Dr. Coles' National hymn 'My Native 
Land', the music being under the direction 
of Mr. John C. Day. Letters were received 
from President and Mrs. William Mc- 
Kinley, Executive Mansion, Washington, D. 
C. from Vice President Garret A. Ho- 
bart, from the Governor of New Jer- 
sey, John W. Griggs, from John H. 
Vincent, Chancellor of Chautauqua Uni- 
versity, and from others prominent in polit- 
ical and literary circles." After prayer by 
the Rev. Dr. Robert Lowry, the American 
flag surrounding the bust was unfurled by 
the President of the Board of Education, 
Mr. William A. Gay. The bust and its 
pedestal were then formally accepted on be- 
half of the City of Newark, by the Mayor, 
the Hon. James M. Seymour, who said : — 

"On behalf of the people of this city it gives me 
great pleasure to accept from our respected fellow 
citizen, Dr. J. Ackerman Coles, this fine memorial 
of that distinguished gentleman, Dr. Abraham 
Coles. Nothing could be more appropriate on 



this spot, opposite our new free public library 
than this bust. 

"Dr. Coles was one of America's greatest 
scholars. His cultured mind roamed through 
many fields and gave to the world some of its 
choicest treasures in literature, poetry and art. 
He was a scholar, a statesman, and a physician. 
He found time in his busy life to do and know 
many things, and do and know each betier ■ . 
most men know one. * * * Dr. Coles spent 
the greater part of his life in Newark. Here 
were his friends, of whom I am proud to have 
been one. His books and writings are known and 
read all over the world, but here we knew the 
pleasant, courteous, kindhearted gentleman. His 
personality is still so fresh and strong in my 
remembrance that in offering this verbal testi- 
mony to his fame, I cannot forget that like 
many other great men in all ages, he was greatest 
in meekness, charity and kindness of heart. * * * 
On behalf of the City of Newark, I accept this 
bust, and though it cannot last as long as the 
memory of him whom it memorializes, let us 
hope that while it stands here ir t'r.v- ■/ i. 
it will have a wide spread influence upon our 
young men and incite them to emulate Dr. Coles' 
useful, studious, earnest life." 

In accepting the bust on behalf of The 
Board of Works, President Stainsby 
said : — 

"There is little that I need say at this time. 
It is a pleasure to commend both the filial and 
public spirit which prompted the donor. The men 
of means of Newark have not hitherto permitted 
their public spirit to take shape for the beautifica- 
tion of the city. With good streets and elaborate 
parks should come beautiful statuary, and all 
that speaks for culture, and the perpetuation of 
objects of interest in our city. In this park now 
stand two monuments. One speaks for the 
foundry and the mechanic, the foundation of our 
city's strength. The other speaks of the profes- 
sional man and the man of literature, made pos- 
sible by our material greatness. The foundation 
boulder, from Plymouth, Mass., will recall to all 
passers the sterling worth and fixity of principles 
of the Puritan fathers, and the superstructure 
bearing the bust will bring to our minds the re- 
ligious in man. and both will be found typified in 
the life and character of Dr. Coles." 

President Stainsby was followed by the 
Rev. Dr. Alexander H. Tuttle, who said : — 

"Dr. Abraham Coles is called the Physician- 
Poet, not because he is the only one of his pro- 



15 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



fession who has put great thought into immortal 
verse, but because of a single work in which he 
has sung, with genuine poetic genius, of the 
organs and functions of the human body. 

" 'Man the Microcosm' is a perilous theme for 
a poet. It awakens the scientific rather than the 
poetic faculty. Nothing of the kind had appeared 
before in our speech. Armstrong's 'The Art of 
Preserving Health,' published over one hundred 
and fifty years ago, can hardly be called an excep- 
tion. Only one with the daring of Lucretius and 
the genius of Pope, both of whom, in many re- 
spects, the Doctor resembled, could so set scien- 
tific and philosophic facts as to make them sen- 
sitive to the breath of the muse. Usually scien- 
tific accuracy is the death of poetry. Darwin 
laments that he, who in the beginning of his 
studies, took the greatest pleasure in Shakes- 
peare, in later years lost all relish for the great 
dramatist. On the other hand a glowing imagina- 
tion is apt to wing its flight beyond the sphere 
of proven facts which accurate science demands. 

"But this poem, which is an address Dr. Coles 
delivered while President of the Medical Society 
of the State of New Jersey, at its centennial meet- 
ing, illumes the theme of a learned profession 
with the sacred speech of Polyhymnia. It at 
once commanded the attention and commenda- 
tion of both physicians and artists, and from the 
time of its delivery, January 24, 1866, its author 
has been known as the 'Poet-Physician.' This 
characterization, however, does not do him jus- 
tice. We might with equal inaccuracy speak of 
David as the 'Warrior-Psalmist,' because the 
divine bard was a soldier and somtimes sang of 
war. 

" 'The Microcosm' is but one of the many prod- 
ucts of Dr. Coles' lyre, and the spirit that bteathes 
here, as in them all, is not anatomy, but divinity. 
Correct as is his science, this is the spirit that 
pervades his song: 

•For such as this did actually enshrine 
Thy gracious Godhead once, when Thou didst make 
Thyself incarnate, for my sinful sake. 
Thou who hast done so very much for me, 

let me do some humble thing for Thee! 

1 would to every organ give a tongue, 
That Thy high praises may be fitly sung; 
Appropriate ministries assign to each. 
The least made vocal, eloquent to teach.' 

"Though the learning is that of the physician, 
the language and the spirit are those of a seraph. 
We must place our author among the sacred 
poets. We cannot pause to consider at length 
the perplexing question: What is sacred poetry? 
We are among those who believe in the sanctity 
of the art, altogether from the theme in which 
it is employed. It is the voice of the soul's in- 
nermost life, expressing itself in form of creative 



speech, which kindles the feeling while it carries 
the thought. To turn such a gift to unholy uses 
is like turning the language of prayer into pro- 
fanity. But in order to fix our author's place in 
the sacred choir, we accept the common thought 
that sacred poetry is that which treats of sacred 
things. 

"It may be epic as in Job and Milton, or dra- 
matic, as in the Song of Solomon and Bach's 
'Passion,' or lyric as in all the Psalms and hymns. 
The most copious of our sacred poetry is the 
lyric. It is distinguished from others not by its 
metrical forms, nor altogether by the material it 
fashions, but by its personal thought or passion 
and its easy adaptation to song. There are four 
distinct grades of lyric poetry by which the rank 
of the poet is determined. The first is what we 
may call the natural, and is characterized by the 
outburst of impassioned personal experience ; the 
second is artistic, and is distinguished by the 
exquisite finish of its structure ; the third is 
didactic, and is differentiated by its aim, which 
is to teach certain truths and facts. There are 
doubtless poets of high merit in this class, but its 
dominant motive is sure to give it the air of the 
school-room, and these lyrics are often only 
doctrine in rhyme. The fourth is the liturgical. 
It is arranged for a service already prepared, 
and is set to music already composed. It is 
usually characterized by poverty of ideas, weari- 
some repetitions and a fatal lack of passion. 

"The foremost poet of the natural order is 
David, the creator of the Hebrew lyric, who, at 
the very beginning, gave to the world the very 
finest specimens of the art. There is in all his 
songs a spontaneous outpouring of the passion 
of the moment. Every creation only images the 
soul of the poet, and his utterance is an elegy 
or an idyl, according as he is grave or gay. To 
this class belong, also, many of the old Latin 
hymns, as those of Thomas of Celano, Bernard of 
Clairvaux and Francis Xavier. They utter the 
soul's innermost consciousness. Measured by this 
standard, Isaac Watts and Charles Wesley are 
highest in the first rank of English hymnists. 
The doctrines of saving truth had become verities 
in their experiences ; and they poured them out 
in rushing torrents of song. Their hymns are 
their own souls' biography. 

"Dr. Coles has written more than fifty original 
poems, many of which merit a place high in the 
first class of lyrics. Some of them have the 
intuition, the passion, the imagery which remind 
us of Cowper. In a poem entitled 'Prayer in 
Affliction,' he describes himself as bowed in sor- 
row in his home, made desolate by the death of 
his wife. But in his grief his faith discovers the 
promise of good out of ill. Then he cries : 



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CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



'O that ray smitten heart may gush 

Melodious praise— like as when o'er 
Aeolian harp strings wild winds rush 

And all abroad, sad music pour. 
So sweet. Heaven's minstrelsy might hush 

Brief time to listen, for I know 
The Hand that doth my comforts crush. 

Builds bliss upon the base of woe.' 

"The whole poem is wondrously suggestive of 
the genius of him who wrote the immortal 
'My Mother.' 

"Some of his hymns throb with a spirit so akin 
to that of the matchless Wesley that we could 
readily believe they came from the Methodist's 
pen. Such is the following: 

'Upon His bosom thus to rest, 
I cannot ask to be more blest; 
To know my sins are all forgiven 
For Jesus' sake. O. this is Heaven. 
While I love Him and He loves me, 
I care no other Heaven to see; 
And if there be some higher bliss, 
I am content while I have this.' 

"But the Doctor did not devote his strength to 
the product of original hymns. He deliberately 
chose to turn masterpieces of ancient tongues 
into English verse. Accordingly we are compell- 
ed to rank him in the second order of lyrists. 
He is 'a poet of culture' whose aim is perfect, 
artistic expression. What determined his choice 
was partly his scholarship, partly his intensely 
spiritual nature, and partly the elegant refinement 
in which he was born and lived. His learning 
was varied and accurate. He was a recognized 
authority in his profession, an accomplished 
linguist, a master of the classic tongues and a 
critical writer on the profoundest theological 
themes. The vastness of his learning gave him 
such ample material for his verse that his poetic 
passion made no imperious call for this invention 
of the intuitive faculty. We cannot think of 
him as we do of Burns, walking out under the 
stars, writhing in pain for some adequate form 
in which to embody the tumultuous passion he 
must express. He had but to lift his eyes, and 
select from his calm wide vision the form he 
needed. Had he been an unlettered peasant, the 
poetic gift would probably have travailed in 
birth of song, which would have come forth in 
varied and original imagery. His poems would 
have shouted and danced like the Psalms of the 
Maccabees. But wealth of advantage is often- 
times poverty of invention. As it was, his imagin- 
ation was constructive rather than creative. Tts 
images are more remarkable for their exquisite 
finish than for the original boldness of their 
conception. It was a fortunate thing for the 
world, and probably for the fame of our author, 
that he devoted his superb gift to rendering the 
best of the Hebrew and classic lvric<: into Eng- 



lish verse. He is not alone among the seraphs 
who have made the attempt, but is conspicuous 
in the goodly company as the recognized chief. 
Others have copied the ancient masterpieces with 
wonderful accuracy, but in most instances have 
failed t© reproduce that indescribable charm that 
gives to a poem its chief value. The spirit that 
breathes cannot be made to order. It must l)e 
born again. Otherwise the poem is a corpse. 
Dr. Coles has not used his art to exhume mum- 
mies. In his verse we have the living voices 
of the old-time singers. 

"As Corot caught the varying movement of the 
trembling foliage in the deepening twilight, and 
so placed it on his canvas that one can almost 
see the shadows lengthening and hear the rustling 
of the leaves, so our poet has reprod'uced the very 
soul of the Hebrew and Latin verses. They are 
not versified translations — they are regenerations. 
They are not wrought from without, but from 
within. Hence they retain that inestimable some- 
thing that gives to a poem its immortality. As a 
single illustration we name his 'Dies Irae,' 
eighteen versions of which come from the strings 
of his restless lyre. This sublimest masterpiece 
of sacred Latin poetry and noblest Judgment 
hymn of all languages has. through many ages, 
been inviting gifted tongues to voice its majestic 
solemnities in English speech. More than thirty 
have had the temerity to respond. Among them 
are Earl Roscommon, Sir Walter Scott, Lord 
Macaulay, Archbishop Trench and General Dix, 
some of whom have given renditions of consider- 
able merit. But among them all. Dr. Coles wears 
the .greenest laurels. Competent critics like Dr. 
Philip Schaff and John G. Whittier unite in 
affirming that no man dead or living .s succeed- 
ed so well in rendering the text and spirit of 
the wonderful hymn. The doctor's baton has 
made our speech throb with the ancient rhythm 
and reproduced in astonishing degree the char- 
acteristic features of the ori.ginal. 

"Here are its artless simplicity, its impassioned 
solemnity, its trumpet-like cadences which appall 
the soul with woeful terrors ; its triple rhyme 
which 'beats the breast like a hammer,' and 
gives it an awful music of its own, making the 
heart shudder with dread apprehension. And in 
all this quivering of judgment-terror there 
breathes the intense Christian spirit of the 
original, which finds strongest utterance in the 
appeal : 

'Jesus kind, do not refuse me! 
O remember Thou didst choose me! 
Lest Thou on that day shalt lose me , 
Seeking me Thy tired feet bore Thee , 
Cruel nails for my sake tore Thee, 
I,et all fail not I implore Thee.' 



II— 2 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



"With equal skill he has put iu English verse, 
hymns from Thomas of Celano, Fortunatus, St. 
Bernard of Cluny, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, and 
others, together with many selections from the 
Greek and Latin classics. It was natural for one 
with our poet's deeply spiritual life to turn with 
special fondness to those fountains of sacred song 
that spring from the Hebrew Psalter. There 
rather than at Helicon the voice of his muse 
was heard. He believed that the life of the past 
was better expressed and preserved in its song 
than in its history — that the inspiration of the 
Psalms was not merely poetic, but really and 

■ truly divine. He also believed that the much 
praised antiphonal parallelism, which Herder 
describes as 'that language of the heart which 
has never .said all, but ever has something more to 
say,' is not adapted to the Saxon genius or knowl- 
edge. If then while he translates the Hebrew 
into English, he also translates the ancient anti- 
phonal into modern meter, he brings the divine 
soul of the psalm in living presence before us. 
The correctness of his view has been often dem- 
onstrated. Clement Marot's metrical version of 
the Psalms proved to be a potent factor in the 
French Reformation. There are few things that 
have told so mightily on the Scotch character as 
Rouse's version. It is asserted that in the time 
of the Reformation, psalm singers and heretics 
became almost identical terms. It is an interest- 
ing fact, if it be true as stated, that such was 
the value our Puritan forefathers placed on 
Psalms in meter, that this was the title of the 
first book printed in New England. 

"The Church, however, has in large measure 
ceased the use of metrical psalms in public wor- 
ship. This is due partly to the evolution of the 
English hymn, under the inspiration of Watts and 
his successors; partly to the vitiated taste occa- 
sioned by the use of jingling ditties, and partly to 
the poor quality of many of the meterized psalms 
which are in reality only mechanical paraphrases. 
We believe that if Dr. Coles' thought can only 

' be adequately realized, if accurate translation can 
be wedded to genuine poetry and set to lifting 
music, it will be a boon to the Church, which 
is now so sadly agitated with the question of the 
choral features of its service. We will not af- 
firm that in his version of the Psalms he has 
in every instance satisfied either the critic's eye 
or the Christian's heart. Even the wings of 
Jove's bird sometimes grew weary. The peerless 
Milton often stumbled in his meter. Are David's 
own Psalms equal ? But the doctor has given 
us a noble volume, which aside from the other 
products of his pen, will place his name on the 
walls of 'the immortals. ' And if psalm-singing 



ever again becomes general in the home and 
in the Church, the rich collection will abide as 
a most helpf d interpreter of the heavenly mean- 
ings of the Hebrew songs. 

"We can barely speak of one otiier work which 
this poet lived to complete — the rendering of the 
Gospel in verse. To some souls the whole Chris- 
tian life is a poem — the Gospel is music itself, 
but he is a brave man who attempts to sing it 
all. Samuel Wesley, the father of John and 
Charles, made the daring effort to versify the 
Gospel. It was both a literary and financial fail- 
ure. With what success Dr. Coles has made a 
similar efTort, it remains for the coming genera- 
tions to declare. In the meanwhile, we listen to 
the judgment of the Right Honorable John Bright 
of England, who says : 'When I began your 
volume I thought you had attempted to gild 
the refined gold and would fail ; as I proceeded 
in my reading, that idea gradually disappeared, 
and I discovered you had brought the refined 
gold together in a manner convenient and useful, 
and deeply interesting. I have read the volume 
with all its notes, many of which seem to me of 
great value. I could envy you the learning and 
the industry that have enabled you to produce 
this remarkable work. I hope it may have read- 
ers in all countries where our language is spoken.' 

"One who consecrates his genius to echoing 
the thought and spirit of the peerless intellects 
of the past is not apt to command popular af- 
fection. There are few Platos and Boswells 
whose names appear on the scroll of immortality. 
But if ever that ambition entered the heart of 
our author, he can sleep tranquilly on the pillow 
of his deathless work. His hymns have been 
placed in many hymnals. His Greek and Latin 
translations are ranked by critics the very fore- 
most. His Psalms and Gospels occupy an honor- 
ed place in every great library of Europe and 
America. 

"As the years separate us wider and ever wider 
from those great productive periods of sacred 
song, which made glad the ages past, more and 
more will the coming generation feel the need of 
Dr. .Abraham Coles' rich echoes." 

After the benediction by the Rev. Dr. F). 
[. Yerkes, there was more music. In the 
words of the "New York Observer" : The 
whole occasion was a dehghtful tribute of 
honor to the memory of a noble man." 

On September 5th, 1895, was received at 
the Mayor's office the following letter from 
J. Ackerman Coles: 



18 




Bronze Group by C.B.Ives, in Lincoln Park, 
Newark. New Jersey. 



An incident at the close of the Indian War of 1764, 

AS TOLD BY THE HISTORIAN FRANCIS PARKMAN. 
A GIFT FROM J. ACKERMAN COLES. M . D., L. L. D. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



To the Honorable Julius A. Lebkuecher, Mayor 
of the City of Newark : 

My Dear Sir — As a gift to Newark, my native 
city, in whose educational, scientific and religious 
advancement my father, the late Dr. Abraham 
Coles, always took a deep and active interest, I 
have, through the agency of Messrs. Sypher & Co., 
of New York City, bought one of the most char- 
acteristic and beautiful groups in real bronze to 
be seen in this country or in Europe. It con- 
sists of three figures — an American Indian, his 
wife and her mother, each life size. The ped- 
estal is of rare dark Italian marble. The whole was 
executed at Rome, Italy, in 1886, by the distin- 
guished American sculptor, the late C. B. Ives, 
and is illustrative of the following facts, related 
by Parkman and other authorities : 

After Colonel Bouquet had, in the Fall of 1764, 
compelled the Indian tribes to sue for peace, he 
demanded the delivery, at Fort Pitt, of all cap- 
tives in their possession. "Among those brought 
in for surrender," says Parkman, "were young 
women who had become partners of Indian hus- 
bands, and who now were led reluctantly into the 
presence of parents or relatives, whose images 
were almost blotted from their memory. They 
stood agitated and bewildered ; the revival of 
old affections and the rush of dormant memories, 
painfully contending with more recent attach- 
ments ; while their Indian lords looked on, scarce- 
ly less moved than they, yet hardening themselves 
with savage stoicism, and standing in the midst 
of their enemies imperturbable as statues of 
bronze. Of the women, wlio were compelled to 
return with their children to the settlements, 
some, subsequently, made their escape, eagerly 
hastening back to their warrior husbands, whose 
kindness before, as well as at the time of the 
surrender, had proved to them the sincerity of 
their affection." 

In our artist's group, the mother discovers the 
wife of the Indian to be her daughter, who was 
carried off in early childhood. She, however, 
fails in her endeavor to obtain from her some 
sign of recognition. It was on this occasion that 
Bouquet, observing her distress, is said to have 
suggested that she should sing one of the songs 
she used to sing to her when a child. She did 
so — then, with a sudden start, followed by a pas- 
sionate flood of tears, the long-lost daughter 
threw herself into her mother's arms. 

In order that his work might be accurate and 
distinctive, Mr. Ives left Rome for this country, 
where he was successful in finding, for his model, 
an Indian who fulfilled all his requirements. Re- 
turning to Italy, he there perfected this, his great 
masterpiece. 

In 1832, the New Jersey Legislature appropriat- 
ed $2,000 to pay the Indians for a claim they 



made in regard to certain hunting and fishing 
rights. On this occasion the red men were repre- 
sented by Shawriskhekung (Wilted Grass), an 
Indian of pure native blood. He was a graduate 
of Princeton College, having been educated at the 
e-xpense of the Scotch Missionary Society, which 
named him Bartholomew S. Calvin. At the age 
of twenty-three he entered the Continental Army 
to fight for independence, and at the time he pre- 
sented to the Legislature the petition for pay 
for the Indian fishing rights he was upward of 
eighty years of age. This aged Indian closed 
his address with the following words : "Not a 
drop of our blood have you spilled in battle ; not 
an acre of our land have you taken but by our 
consent. These facts speak for themselves and 
need no comment. They place the character of 
New Jersey in bold relief and bright example to 
those States within whose territorial limits our 
brethren still remain. There may be some who 
would despise an Indian benediction, but when 
I return to my people and make known to them 
the result of my mission, the ear of the great 
Sovereign of the universe, which is still open to 
our cry, will be penetrated with our invocation 
of blessings upon the generous sons of New 
Jersey." 

"It is a proud fact in the history of New Jer- 
sey," said Senator Samuel L. Southard before 
the Legislature on this same occasion, "that every 
foot of her soil has been obtained from the 
Indians by voluntary purchase and transfer, a fact 
no other State of the Union, not even the land 
which bears the name of Penn can boast of." 
For these as well as for other reasons it has 
seemed to me to be pre-eminently proper that 
New Jersey should possess this magnificent 
monument cast in honor of the American Indian." 

With your sanction I will have it brought to 
Newark and have it placed on a suitably pre- 
pared foundation, all at my own individual ex- 
pense, in the locality we shall decide upon. Await- 
ing your reply, I am, with great respect. 
Yours sincerely. 

To the above was sent the following 
reply : 

Office of the Mayor, City Hall, Newark, 
N. J., Sept. 13. 1895. 
Dr. Jonathan Ackerman Coles, 222 Market Street, 
City: 
Dear Sir — The communication directed to the 
Mayor of the City of Newark, dated September 
4, 1895, and containing your munificent offer to 
present to the city a handsome bronze group, was 
referred to the Common Council at its last meet- 
ing, held Friday, September 6, accompanied by a 
message which read as follows : 



IQ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Office of the Mayor, City Hall, Newark, 
September 6, 1895. 
To the Honorable the Common Council of the 
City of Newark; 
Gentlemen — I have the honor and pleasure 
to transmit herewith a communication which 
I received yesterday from Dr. Jonathan Ackerman 
Coles. In it he offers, as a gift to the city of 
Newark, a work of art, by an American sculptor 
of note, being a group in bronze which marks a 
most interesting historical event, and as a me- 
morial will recall the valuable services rendered 
in the interests of science and education by his 
distinguished father, the late Dr. Abraham Coles. 
I respectfully recommend that action be taken 
by your honorable body to acknowledge the valu- 
able and interesting gift, and to co-operate with 
the donor in providing a suitable place for its 
erection. 

Yours very truly, 

J. A. LEBKUECHER, Mayor. 

It was received and read with great gratifica- 
tion, and in response thereto the following resolu- 
tion of acknowledgment and acceptance was un- 
animously adopted: 

"Whereas, A beautiful work of art, by a sculptor 
of distinction, has been presented to the city of 
Newark by Dr. Jonathan Ackerman Coles; there- 
fore, be it 

"Resolved, That the Mayor be instructed to 
convey to the donor the sincere sense of apprecia- 
tion in which this gift is received by the municipal 
government and people of the city of Newark; 
and be it further 

"Resolved, That a committee of five, of whom 
the Mayor and the President of the Common 
Council shall be members, be appointed to act 
with the donor in the selection of a suitable site 
for the placing of this valuable gift." 

In pursuance of the above resolution I have 
the honor to extend to you, in behalf of the 
municipal government, the assurance of its high 
appreciation of your generous gift, and as Chief 
Executive to tender to you the thanks of its 
citizens. 

The spirit which prompts the presentation of 
this artistic group of bronze to the city is worthy 
of the greatest commendation. It gives me much 
pleasure to acknowledge for the first time in the 
history of the city a gift from one of its private 
citizens, which shall be for many generations a 
civic monument of beauty and a source of pride 
to the residents of Newark. 

I have the honor to be yours very truly, 

J. A. LEBKUECHER, Mayor. 

The committee, which consisted of Mayor Julius 
.K. Lebkiiecher, Mr. David D. Bragaw, President 



of the Common Council ; Aldermen William Har- 
rigan, Sidney N. Ogden and Winton C. Garrison, 
after visiting the different parks in company with 
the donor, finally decided upon the North End 
of Lincoln park as the most suitable site for the 
bronze. 

Subsequently the Mayor and Common Council 
presented Dr. Coles with a testimonial of the 
city's appreciation of his gift. This Memorial 
the "New York Tribune" describes as "a beautiful 
specimen of the art of engrossing. It is in an 
album form, bound in dark leather of the finest 
quality, the flyleaves being of rich white moire 
silk. The body of the memorial contains the com- 
munication of the Mayor to the Common Council 
announcing the offer of Dr. Coles, the resolutions 
passed by the Council in accepting the gift, and 
the announcement by Mayor Lebkuecher to Dr. 
Coles of the acceptance. The delineator is Mr. 
John H. Morris, Secretary of the Board of 
Assessments." 

The Rt. Rev. John Williams, D. D., 
LL.D., Bishop of the Diocese of Connecti- 
cut,* Chancellor of Trinity College, etc., 
etc., in a letter to the son of the late Dr. 
Abraham Coles, referring to the bronze 
and its pedestal, said: 

"An inscription of the last stanzas of your 
father's beautiful National h>Tnns, 'Columbia, 
the Land of the Free,' and 'My Native Land,' 
upon the marble pedestal of the bronze historical 
group you are about to present to the City of 
Newark, N. J., would not only be a graceful trib- 
ute to your father's memory, but would also give 
a National as well as local value to the gift." 

The Bishop's suggestion was carried out. 
On the front of the pedestal were cut the 
following words : — 

From our borders expel all oppression and wrong. 
Oh! Thou, who did'st plant us and make us a 

Nation! 
In the strength of Thine arm make us evermore 

strong ; 
On our gates inscribe Praise, on our walls write 

Salvation ! 
May Thyself be our Light, from Thy heavenly 

height 
Ever flashing new splendors and chasing our 

night. 
That united and happy we ever may be 
To the end of all time, still the Land of the Free! 



*(In 1666 Newark was settled by people from 
Connecticut.) 



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CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



On the back of the pedestal the stanza 
cut in the granite is : — 

God of our fathers ! bless, 
Exalt in righteousness 

This Land of ours! 
Be Right our lofty aim, 
Our title and our claim, 
To high and higher fame 

Among the Powers. 

Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 1895, 
was selected by the Common Council Com- 
mittee and Dr. Coles as the time most ap- 
propriate for the unveiling exercises. 

The following was the order of exer- 
cises : 

Music under the direction of Mr. Frank E. Drake ; 
Prof. Thomas Bott, bass ; James V. Orchard, 
tenor, and Mr. David B. Dana, cornetist. 

1. National Hj'mn, "My Native Land," Abraham 
Coles. The children, teachers and friends of 
the Public and Private Schools of Newark, and 
from elsewhere in the State, led by Prof. Bott, 
Mr. Orchard, Mr. Dana, cornetist, and Mr. 
Drake. 

2. Unveiling of the Bronze Historic Group and 
Pedestal, by Miss Lucy Depue Ogden, grand- 
daughter of the Hon. David Ayres Depue. 
LL.D., Justice of the Supreme Court of New 
Jersey, and Master Robert B. Bradley, grandson 
of the late Hon. Joseph P. Bradley, LL.D., 
Justice of the Supreme Court of the L'nited 
States. 

3. Presentation Address by Dr J A. Coles 

4. Address by the Hon. Julius A. Lebkuecher, 
Mayor of the City of Newark, accepting the 
gift, and turning it over to the Board of Works. 

5. Address by Mr. Harrison Van Duyne, Presi- 
dent of the Board of Works. 

6. Delivery of Keys of Bo.xes in Marble Pedestal, 
Miss Grace E. Bates, grand-niece of David D. 
Bragaw, President of the Common Council. 

7. Receiving of the Keys by Miss Helen Coyken- 
dall, granddaughter of Henry Hopper. Chief 
of Police, who will subsequently, for safe keep- 
ing, drop them from the Bridge street bridge 
into the waters of the Passaic. 

8. National Hymn, "Columbia, the Land of the 
Free," Abraham Coles, 1853. School children 
and audience, led by Prof Bott, Mr Orchard, 
Mr. Dana, and Mr. Drake. 

9. Address by Dr. Henry J. Anderson, President 
of the Board of Education. 

10. National Hymn, "The Fourth of July," Abra- 
ham Coles, 1851. School children and audience. 



led by Prof. Bott, Mr. Orchard, Mr. Dana, ani 
Mr. Drake. 

11. Address by Dr. William N. Barringer, Super- 
intendent of Public Schools. Subject: "A 
Nation's History as shown in its Monuments." 

12. National Hymn, "Our Country's Banner," 
Abraham Coles, 1861. School children and 
audience, led by Prof. Bott, Mr. Orchard, Mr. 
Dana, and Mr. Drake. 

13. Address by David R. Frazer, D. D., pastor 
of the First Presbyterian Church. In honor 
of the Rev. Mr. Pierson, the first minister of 
this church, Newark is said to have received its 
name, he having been educated in Newark, Eng- 
land. 

14. Bi-Centennial Ode, "Two Hundred Years 
Ago," Abraham Coles, 1866. School children 
and audience, led by Prof. Bott, Mr. Orchard, 
Mr. Dana, and Mr. Drake. 

15. Benediction (1:30 p. m.). by Robert M. 
Luther, D. D., pastor of the South Baptist 
Church. 

In referring to the "Coles Memorial 
High School" building at Kurnool, "The 
Madras Mail," ,of Madras, India, Decem- 
ber 19, 1908, says : 

"His Excellency, the Honorable Sir Arthur 
Lawley, G. C, L E., K. C, M. G., Governor 
of Fort George, after formally declaring the 
Memorial High School building open, was con- 
ducted to the principal hall, where the elite of 
Kurnool interested in the noble educational work 
of the American Missionaries in the District 
were assembled to show their sympathy with 
their activities. The Rev. Dr. A. W. Stanton, 
the missionary in charge, had prepared an in- 
teresting programme of songs and recitations by 
the children, who entered with great zest and 
feeling into the performance, which wound up 
with a statement from Mr. Stanton giving a his- 
tory of the school. His Excellency delivered one 
of his characteristic addresses, full of wise coun- 
sel and deep interest in the rising generation of 
India. His Excellency spoke as follows: 

" 'Mr. Stanton, Ladies and Gentlemen : I as- 
sure you that I esteem it a very great pleasure 
and a very great honor to have been able to 
formally open the "Coles Memorial High School" 
building, and to express my sense of admiration 
at the noble purpose and the great generosity of 
those by whom this building was erected. 

" 'My admiration of the building itself is great 
and my fervent hope and prayer is that God may 
bless Dr. Coles and his sister, by whose in- 
strumentality this building has been brought into 
existence. I pray too that His blessing may be 



21 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



upon those who control the destinies of this school, 
and have the advantage of working within these 
walls. You have shown me this evening, sir, 
a most beautiful building of brick and stone, 
and you tell me it will shortly be equipped witl. 
every modern requirement. I congratulate you 
on what you have achieved, without Government 
help. It is, believe me, in my opinion, most prais- 
worthy.' " 

The tablet on the building reads ; . 

To the Glory of God, 

And in loving memory of 

Abraham Coles, A. M., M. D., Ph.D., LL.D.. 

and of his wife 

Caroline E. Ackerman Coles, 

This building is erected by their son, 

Jonathan Ackerman Coles, M. D., LL.D., 

and their daughter, 

Emilie S. Coles. 

"With the singing of Dr. Abraham Coles' fine 
old hymn, 'O all ye lands unite your joys,' to 
the tune of "Old Hundred,' followed by the 
National anthem, the exercises closed. With a 
hearty hand-shake the Governor took his de- 
parture, amid the shouts of the school children, 
the waving of flags and the ringing of the school 
building's bronze bell." 

Reference has been made to Dr. Coles' 
"New Rendering of the Hebrew Psalms 
into English Verse," and we give herewith 
his version of Psalm XIX, concerning 
which he says : There are two voices — one 
inaudible — declaring the glory of God, the 
other audible, declaring His zvill. It forms 
a fit companion piece to Psalm VI II. We 
have thus a day-piece and a night-piece 
by the same hand. The pastoral life is fav- 
orable to meditation. Spent in the open 
air, all natural sights and sounds grow fam- 
iliar. David in both Psalms recalls the 
peaceful time, when, a shepherd lad, al- 
ready skilled in the use of his rustic lyre, 
and accustomed to give vent to his pious 
rapture in holy song, he lay on summer 
nights on the pleasant hill-sides of Beth- 
lehem watching his flock, and, looking up, 
saw "the heavens sowed with stars, thick 
as a field" : and, as the night wore away, 
saw the grey dawn, and the kindling fires 
of day-break, till, all at once, the sun, the 
regent of day, shot suddenly up from be- 
hind the mountains of Moab. 



PSALM XIX 

1 The rolling skies with lips of flame 
Their Maker's power and skill proclaim : 

2 Day speaks to day, and night to night 
Shows knowledge writ in beams of light. 

3 And though no voice, no spoken word 
Can by the outward ear be heard, 

4 The witness of a travelling sound. 
Reverberates the world around. 

In the bright east with gold enriched 
He for the sun a tent has pitched, 

5 That, like a bridegroom after rest. 
Comes from his chamber richly drest. 
An athlete strong and full of grace. 
And glad to run the heavenly race, — 

6 Completes his round with tireless feet. 
And naught is hidden from his heat. 

7 But, Nature's book sums not the whole : 
God's perfect law converts the soul ; 
His sure unerring word supplies 

The means to make the simple wise; 

8 His precepts are divinely right, 
.^n inspiration and delight ; 

His pure commandment makes all clear, 

9 Qean and enduring in His fear. 

The judgments of the Lord are true, 
And righteous wholly through and through ; 

10 More to be coveted than gold. 
Of higher worth a thousand fold ; 
More sweet than sweetest honey far, 
Th' un foldings of their sweetness are: 

11 They warn Thy servant, and they guard; 
In keeping them there's great reward. 

12 Who can his errors understand? 
My secret faults are as the sand : 
From these me cleanse, make pure within, 

13 And keep me from presumptuous sin; 
Lest sin me rule and fetter fast. 
And I unpardoned die at last. 

14 My words and meditation be 

O Lord, my Rock, approved of Thee. 

In the Highland Home for Children, 
erected in memory of Dr. Coles and of his 
brother-in-law. Mr. Warren .\ckerman, is 
a stained glass window, illustrating the 
Study of Nature, whereon is inscribed : — 
"The heavens declare the glory of God; 
and the firmament sheweth His handy- 
work. Day unto day uttereth speech, and 
night unto night sheweth knowledge. Let 
the words of my mouth, and the meditations 
of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O 
Lord, my Strength, and my Redeemer." 



22 




CHILDRENS HIGHLAND HOME 





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CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JEKSHV 



CLEVELAND, Grover, 

Uawyer, Statesman. President. 

Grover Cleveland, son of Rev. Richard 
Falley and Ann (Neal) Cleveland, was 
born March i8, 1837, in Caldwell, New Jer- 
sey, in a small two-story building which was 
the parsonage of the Presbyterian church 
of which his father was then pastor, and 
which is yet standing. He was named 
Stephen Grover for his father's predecessor 
in the pastorate, but in childhood the first 
name was dropped. 

When he was three years old his parents 
removed to Fayetteville, Onondaga county, 
New York, where he lived until he was 
fourteen, attending the district school and 
academy. He was of studious habits, and 
his frank open disposition made him a fav- 
crite with both his teachers and fellows. 
He left the academy before he could com- 
plete the course, and took employment in a 
village store, his wages being fifty dollars 
for the first year and one hundred dollars 
for the second year, but soon after the be- 
ginning of the latter period he removed to 
Clinton, New York, whither his parents had 
preceded him, and resumed studies at the 
academy in preparation for admission to 
Hamilton College. The death of his father, 
however, disappointed this expectation, and 
made it necessary for him to enter upon 
self-support. He accordingly accepted a 
position as bookkeeper and assistant teacher 
in the New York Institution for the Blind, 
which he filled acceptably for a year. Start- 
ing west in search of more lucrative em- 
ployment, with twenty-five dollars to de- 
fray his expenses, he stopped on the way at 
Buffalo, New York, to make a farewell visit 
to his uncle, Lewis F. Allen, a stock farmer, 
who induced him to remain and aid him in 
the compilation of "Allen's American 
Shorthorn Herd Book." In return he re- 
ceived the sum of fifty dollars, and with 
this aid he entered the law offices of Rogers, 
Bowen & Rogers, at Buffalo, as a clerk and 
law student. His student life was one of 
arduous labor and vigorous economy and 



self-denial. For a few months he served 
without compensation as a copyist, and then 
received a wage of four dollars a week. 
He became confidential clerk to his em- 
ployers, and was admitted to the bar in 

1859. 

Mr. Cleveland's public life began in 1863, 
wlien he was appointed assistant district 
attorney for Erie county. A staunch 
Democrat from his first studies in Ameri- 
can history and politics, he had been a 
sturdy supporter of his party and an indus- 
trious worker from the day in 1858 when 
he cast his first vote. In the office to which 
he was chosen he acquitted himself so well, 
that at the expiration of his term he re- 
ceived the unanimous nomination for dis- 
trict attorney. He had for his Republican 
opponent a warm personal friend, Lyman 
K. Bass, who was elected by a plurality of 
five hundred; Mr. Cleveland, however, 
polled more than his party vote in all the 
city wards. Retiring from office in Janu- 
ary, 1866, he formed a law partnership with, 
Isaac V. Vanderpoel, former State Treas- 
urer, under the firm name of Vanderpoel & 
Cleveland. In 1869 he became a member 
of the law firm of Laning, Cleveland & Fol- 
som, his partners being Albert P. Laning, 
former State Senator, and for years at- 
torney for the Canada Southern and Lake 
Shore railways, and Oscar Folsom, former 
United States District Attorney. As in pre- 
vious years, he sent the large portion of his 
earnings to his mother, to aid her in sup- 
port of her family. In 1870 at the earnest 
solicitation of his party friends, and against 
his own earnestly expressed desire, he con- 
sented to become candidate for sheriff, and 
was elected after a stubbornly contested 
canvass. His official conduct was warmly 
approved by the people. At the expiration 
of his term of office he resumed the prac- 
tice of law, in association with Lyman K. 
Bass and Wilson S. Bissell. Mr. Bass re- 
tired in 1879 on account of ill health, the 
firm becoming Cleveland & Bissell. In 
1881 George J. Sicard was admitted to part- 



23 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



nership. During all tliese changes Mr. 
Cleveland shared in a large and lucrative 
business, while he had attracted the admira- 
tion of bench and bar for the care with 
which he prepared his cases, and the ability 
and industry with which he contested them. 

In 1881 Mr. Cleveland was nominated 
for Mayor of Buffalo on a platform advo- 
cating administrative reform and economy 
in municipal expenditures, and was elected 
by the largest majority ever given a candi- 
date for that office, and at an election 
where, although the Democrats carried their 
local ticket to success, the Republicans car- 
ried the city for their State ticket by more 
than one thousand plurality. His adminis- 
tration carried unstinted approval, for his 
courageous devotion to the interests of the 
people and his success in checking unwise, 
illegal and extravagant expenditures, sav- 
ing to the city a million dollars in the first 
six months of his term, and he was a popu- 
lar favorite as "The Veto Mayor." He was 
now a State celebrity, and the convention of 
his party held September 22, 1882, at Syra- 
cuse, nominated him for Governor. He 
was elected over the Republican nominee, 
Charles J. Folger, by the tremendous plu- 
rality of 192,854 — the largest plurality ever 
given a gubernatorial candidate in any state 
in the Union. Among the chief acts of his 
administration were his approval of a bill 
to submit to the people a proposition to 
abolish contract prison labor ; his veto of a 
bill permitting wide latitude to savings bank 
directors in investment of deposits ; his veto 
of a similar bill respecting insurance com- 
panies ; and his veto of a bill to establish a 
monoply by limiting the right to construct 
certain street railways to companies here- 
tofore organized, to the exclusion of such 
as should hereafter obtain the consent of 
property owners and local authorities. 

Mr. Cleveland was nominated for Presi- 
dent by the Democratic National Conven- 
tion in Chicago, in July, 1884, receiving 683 
votes out of a total of 820. His Republi- 

24 



can opponent was Hon. James G. Blaine. 
The campaign was remarkable for the dis- 
cussion of the personal characters and qual- 
ifications of the candidates rather than po- 
litical principles. At the election Mr. Cleve- 
land received a majority of thirty-seven in 
the Electoral College, and a majority in the 
popular vote of 23,005, out of a total of 
10,067,610. At his inauguration, March 4, 
1885, he delivered an admirable inaugural 
address, with flowing ease, and his modesty 
and sincerity impressed all hearers. He 
took his official oath upon a small moroc- 
co-bound, gilt-edged Bible, a gift from his 
mother when as a lad he first left home. 
Among the most important acts of his ad- 
ministration was his proclamation of March 
13, 1885, for the removal of white intruders 
from Oklahoma, Indian Territory ; and, af- 
ter the burning of Aspinwall, Panama, by 
the revolutionists, March 31, 1885, his ord- 
ering a naval expedition to protect Ameri- 
can persons and property. 

Mr. Cleveland was unanimously renom- 
inated for President in 1888, but was de- 
feated by Benjamin Harrison, Republican, 
although his plurality in the popular vote 
was more than 100,000. He then located 
in the city of New York aind again took up 
his profession. In June, 1892, he was nom- 
inated for the Presidency a third time, by 
the Democratic National Convention in 
Chicago, receiving on the first ballot 617 
1-3 votes out of 910, the nomination then 
being made unanimous. At the election he 
defeated Benjamin Harrison by a plurality 
of 1 10 in the Electoral College, and a plur- 
ality of 379,150 in the popular vote. He 
was inaugurated March 4, 1893, in the pres- 
ence of a vast multitude in midst of a blind- 
ing snowstonn. The military and civic pa- 
rade was more imposing than on any other 
similar occasion. His administration was 
marked by some most unusual features. 
His first important act was to call a special 
session of Congress, August 7, 1893, and in 
pursuance of his recommendation was re- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



pealed the act of 1890 calling for the 
monthly purchase of $4,500,000 of silver 
bullion. In this he was opposed by the sil- 
ver wing of his party. Elected as he was on 
a tariff-reform platform, both houses of 
Congress were in accord with him on that 
issue, and in 1894 was passed the Wilson 
bill, a tariff-for-revenue-only measure. The 
industrial and financial stagnation of that 
period was ascribed by the Republicans to 
this measure, while the Free-Silver Demo- 
crats attributed it in large degree to the re- 
peal of the silver-purchase measure, and in 
November of the same year the Republi- 
cans won a protective tariff victory, with 
the result that during the latter half of 
President Cleveland's administration he had 
to deal with a Republican Congress. He 
performed invaluable service to law and 
order and protection to property by his firm 
stand with reference to the railroad riots 
in July, 1894, ordering United States troops 
to Chicago and other railroad centers to 
enforce the orders and processes of the 
Federal Courts, and to prevent interference 
with inter-state commerce and the transmis- 
sion of the United States mails. On Janu- 
ary I, 1895, he appointed, with the consent 
of the Senate, the commission to inquire in- 
to the Venezuelan boundary. During the 
insurrection in Cuba he took strong meas- 
ures against the violation of the neutrality 
laws. In February, in order to preserve 
the national credit, he ordered an issue of 
four per cent, thirty-year bonds to the 
amount of $62,000,000. May 29th he ve- 
toed the river and harbor bill calling for an 
immediate expenditure of $17,000,000, and 
authorizing contracts for the further sum 
of $62,000,000, but the bill was passed over 
his veto. In the summer of the same year 
he received the signal compliment of being 
chosen as arbitrator in the dispute between 
Italy and Colombia, in which the former 
claimed large pecuniary damages for in- 
juries sustained by Indians during the revo- 
lution of 1885. Late in 1895. in his annual 
message, he recommended a general reform 

25 



of banking and currency laws, and accom- 
plished the settlement of the Venezuelan 
boundary, the treaty being signed February 
2, 1896. In the latter year he issued an ord- 
er under which thirty thousand additional 
posts in the civil service were placed under 
restrictions formulated by the Board of 
Civil Service Commissioners. In the same 
year he sent General Fitzhugh Lee to Ha- 
vana as consul-general — an appointment 
which was approved by a great mass of 
Union veterans almost as heartily as it was 
by the ex-Confederates. On June 16, 1896, 
he issued an opep letter condemning the 
free-silver movement, and approving the 
principles of the Gold Wing of the Demo- 
cratic party, a document which had a salu- 
tary and far-reaching effect. Before the 
expiration of his official term he had the 
great pleasure of witnessing the execution 
of a treaty between the United States and 
Great Britain providing for the establish- 
ment of an international tribunal of general 
arbitration. 

One of President Cleveland's last public 
appearances before retiring from his high 
office was the delivery of an address at 
the sesquicentennial celebration of Prince- 
ton College, which took on its more appro- 
priate title of University. Shortly after- 
ward he purchased a home in Princeton, 
where his first son was born. Known as a 
polished and forceful writer, Mr. Cleve- 
land's most important papers have been 
widely published. His annual message of 
1887 was issued in a sumptuous edition de 
luxe, illustrated by the famous artist. 
Thomas Nast. An important compilation 
of his utterances was made by Francis 
Gottsberger, of New York, under the title, 
"Principles and Purposes of Our Form of 
Government, As Set Forth In Public Pap- 
ers of Grover Cleveland," and George F. 
Parker edited a volume. "Writings and 
Speeches of Grover Cleveland." In 1904 
appeared "Presidential Problems." a vol- 
ume of essays by Mr. Cleveland, two of 
which were originally delivered at Prince- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ton University, the others being articles 
which had their original appearance in lead- 
ing magazines. 

Mr. Cleveland was of striking personal- 
ity, commanding respect and confidence 
under all circumstances and before all man- 
ner of assemblages. Physically of large 
and powerful frame, in motion he was de- 
liberate and firm, yet without slowness. In 
manner and voice he was genial and agree- 
able. Broad-minded and liberal in thought, 
he was tolerant and charitable. In religion 
he was a man of conscience rather than of 
any set creed. All his personal habits 
were marked by Democratic simplicity, and 
totally devoid of ostentation. After his re- 
tirement from the loftiest place open to an 
American, he steadily grew in the regard 
and affection of the people, while publicists 
and political students are only beginning to 
adequately measure the wisdom and bene- 
ficence which were the characteristics of his 
public career. He died June 24, 1908. 

In the second year of his first Presi- 
dential term, June 2, 1886, President 
Cleveland was married to Miss Frances 
Folsom, the ceremony being performed by 
Rev. Byron Sunderland, D. D., in the Blue 
Room in the White House. 



ALEXANDER, William Cowper, 

Lawyer, Insurance Aotnary. 

William Cowper .Alexander was born in 
Prince Edward county, Virginia, May 20th, 
1806, son of Rev. Archibald Alexander, 
D.D., the first professor in the Princeton 
Theological Seminary, and of Janetta 
(Waddel) Alexander, daughter of Rev. 
James Waddel, Wirts" "Blind Preacher." 
He was graduated from Princeton College 
in 1824. He studied law under Hon. James 
S. Green, in Princeton, and was admitted 
to the bar in 1827. He became a leader in 
the Democratic party. He was a State 
Senator from 1853 to 1868, and president 
of that body four years. In 1857 he re- 
ceived the Democratic nomination for Gov- 



ernor, but was defeated, with his party. In 
1859 he was chosen president of the Equi- 
table Life Assurance Society of the United 
States, and held the position until his death, 
August 24th, 1874. He was a member 
from New Jersey of the famous Peace 
Congress, held in Washington in 1861. La- 
fayette College, Pennsylvania, conferred 
the degree of Doctor of Laws upon him in 
i860. He was never married. 



BROOKS, Noah, 

Joarnalist and Anthor. 

Noah Brooks, one of the most pro- 
lific and influential writers of his day. 
was born at Castine, Maine, October 
24, 1830, son of Barker and Mar- 
garet ( Perkins) Brooks. His father, a 
master shipbuilder, was a man of great 
strength and kindness of character ; and his 
ancestors, of English origin, were noted for 
patriotism and public spirit during the Rev- 
olutionary War. The first American repre- 
sentative of the paternal line in this country 
was William Brooks, of Kent, England, a 
passenger in the ship "Blessing," who land- 
ed at Scituate, Massachusetts, in 1635. His 
maternal descent is derived from the Per- 
kins family of Massachusetts, which has 
been equally prominent and honorable 
throughout colonial history. 

Noah Brooks was educated in the public 
schools and the high school of his native 
town, and at the age of eighteen removed ta 
Boston, Massachusetts, where he began 
studies with a view to adopting landscape 
painting as a life calling. In the midst of 
his artistic studies, however, he developed 
a strong taste for literature, contributing 
short sketches, notices, essays, and liumor- 
ous tales to the weekly newspajiers and 
magazines of the day, and by the time he 
was twenty-one, he was able to earn his 
living by his pen. He became regularly at- 
tached to the staflf of the "Boston Atlas," a 
daily newspaper. In 1835 he went west. 



26 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



first entering into a mercantile partnership 
with John G. Brooks, an intimate friend in 
Dixon, Illinois, and upon its failure migrat- 
img with him to Kansas, where he engaged 
in farming. After a short sojourn in the 
territory, during which he was actively in- 
terested in the Free State agitations, he and 
Mr. Brooks went to California with a great 
company of emigrants, crossing the plains 
with ox-teams, the only available method at 
that day. In the course of the tedious jour- 
ney they had many experiences and adven- 
tures, which were subsequently narrated in 
some of Mr. Brooks' best tales. Mr. Brooks 
located in Marysville, Yuba county, where 
he undertook the publication of the "Daily 
Appeal" in association with Benjamin P. 
Avery, afterwards U. S. Minister to China, 
but in 1862 he sold out his interest and ac- 
cepted the post of Washington, correspon- 
dent for the "Sacramento Union," the prin- 
cipal journal of the Pacific coast. At the 
national capital he renewed his friendship 
with President Lincoln, whom he had 
known years before in Illinois, and in 1865 
was invited by him to become his private 
secretary, in place of John G. Nicholay, 
then recently appointed to the French mis- 
sion. The ofifer was accepted, but before 
the change could be made the President was 
assassinated. Mr. Brooks was then ap- 
pointed by President Johnson naval officer 
of the Port of San Francisco, but was re- 
moved at the end of eighteen months for 
refusing to comply with certain political re- 
quirements of the administration. After his 
retirement he returned at once to journal- 
ism, and from 1866 to 1 87 1 was editor of 
the "Alta California." of San Francisco. 
He was a regular contributor to the "Over- 
land Monthly" from its foundation in 1866, 
and also conducted a semi-monthly juvenile 
magazine. From 1871 to 1876 he was at- 
tached to the staff of the "New York Trib- 
une," most of the time as night editor, then 
accepted a position with "The Times," 
which he held for eight years. In 1884 he 



became editor of the Newark (New Jersey) 
"Daily Advertiser," but in 1892 retired 
permanently from journalism. He has 
since devoted himself to authorship, and 
during the winter of 1894-5 he made an ex- 
tensive tour through Egypt, Turkey and 
the Holy Land. Besides innumerable ar- 
ticles, reviews and short stories in all the 
leading American magazines, he has pub- 
lished "The Boy Emigrants" ( 1876) ; "The 
Fairport Nine" (1880): "Our Baseball 
Club" (1884); "Abraham Lincoln, a Bio- 
graphy for Young People" ( 1888) ; "The 
Boy Settlers" (1891); "American States- 
men" (1893) ; "Tales of the Maine Coast" 

(1894) ; "Abraham Lincoln and the Down- 
fall of American Slavery" ( 1894 ) ; "Short 
Studies in American Party Politics" 

(1895) ; "How the Republic is Gov- 
erned" (1895) : "Washington in Lincoln's 
Time" (1896); "Mediterranean Trip" 

(1896) ; "History of the United States" 
( 1896) ; and "Story of Marco Polo" ( 1896). 

All of Mr. Brooks' stories possess 
a high degree of imagination and construc- 
tiveness ; and with a wealth of wholesome 
incident and adventure, are both amusing 
and instructive. As a worker he was untir- 
ing, able to accomplish an enormous 
amount, and possessed of a remarkably re- 
tentive memory for facts and details. In 
his large circle of friends he was known as 
afTable, jolly, and a good story teller, and 
enjoyed the close friendship of the majority 
of the public men of his time. He was a 
founder of the Authors' Club of New York 
City, and belonged to the Century Club and 
New England Society. In religious faith he 
was an orthodox Congregationalist, active in 
church and charitable work, and held it his 
greatest privilege to aid many young men 
to a start in life. 

Mt. Brooks was married, in 1856, to Car- 
oline A., daughter of Oliver Fellows, of 
Salem, Massachusetts ; she died in Marys- 
ville, California, in 1862. He resided in 
New York City, spending his summers at 



27 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



his country house at Castine, Maine, which 
with happy humor he christened "The Ark." 
He died in 1903. 



ABBETT, Leon, 

Lavryer, Legislator, Governor. 

Governor Leon Abbett, a man of dis- 
tinguished ability, and wlio has left a 
marked impress upon the legislation of his 
State, descended from an English Quaker 
who emigrated to Montgomery county, 
Pennsylvania, about the middle of the eigh- 
teenth century. Ezekiel Abbett, a son of 
this emigrant, was a prosperous hatter ; he 
married Sarah M. Howell, of a prominent 
New Jersey family, and they were the par- 
ents of Governor Abbett, who was born in 
Philadelphia, October 8. 1836, and died in 
Jersey City, December 4, 1884. 

He completed his education in the Central 
High School, Philadelphia, from which he 
was graduated in his seventeenth year, at 
the head of his class. He studied law under 
John W. Ashmead, of Philadelphia, and 
was admitted to the bar in 1858. After 
practicing for a year in Philadelphia, he re- 
moved to Hoboken. and was admitted to 
the bars of New Jersey and New York, and 
was associated in partnership with William 
J. A. Fuller, of New York, until the death 
of last named, in 1889. Mr. Abbett's abil- 
ity, energy and eloquence gave him great 
prominence, and he was engaged in many 
important cases, and was recognized as an 
authority in cases involving municipal and 
corporation law. 

His brilliant public career had its begin- 
ning in 1863, when he was elected corpora- 
lion counsel of Hoboken. A Democrat in 
politics, in 1864, he was elected to the legis- 
Ijture, was re-elected the next year, and in 
both terms was chairman of the assembly 
Democratic caucus. In 1866 he removed to 
Jersey City, and represented the First As- 
sembly District in the legislature, from 1868 
to 1870, being speaker of the house the last 
two years of his terms. In i8f>0 he was 



president of the Board of Education of Jer- 
sey City. In 1872 he was a delegate-at- 
large to the Democratic National Conven- 
tion at Baltimore, and one of its secretaries, 
and in 1876 was a delegate to the Demo- 
cratic National Convention in St. Louis. 
During this period he was corporation coun- 
sel for the city of Bayonne, and the town 
of Union, and subsequently served as such 
for Jersey City. In 1874, while in Europe, 
he was nominated for State senator, was 
elected, served three years and the last year 
was president of the senate. In 1878 he 
was elected by Governor McClellan a mem- 
ber of the commission to draft a general 
charter for the government of cities, and 
later Governor Ludlow appointed him to 
a commission to devise means for a more 
just method of taxation. In 1883 he was 
elected governor, and in his inaug;ural ad- 
dress he called attention to the inadequacy 
of the taxation system of the State, whereby 
railroads were practically exempted from 
taxation, and urged an immediate remedy; 
the legislature passed a law imposing a tax 
on railroads and other corporations, and the 
same was upheld by the courts. He forced 
from the Morris & Essex Railroad Com- 
pany the surrender of an alleged irreparable 
contract with the State, exempting the road 
from taxation, and recovered from it $235,- 
000 in back taxes, at the same time induc- 
ing other railroads to abandon their exemp- 
tion claims. At his instance the labor laws 
were wisely amended, and a series of acts 
passed for the better government of muni- 
cipalities. In his second term he procured 
the enactment of a ballot reform law. In 
1887 he was the caucus candidate of his 
party for United States senator, but was 
defeated, and in 1889 was re-elected gov- 
ernor. He was chairman of the New Jer- 
sey delegation to the Democratic National 
Convention in 1880. He was frequently 
mentioned as a desirable candidate for the 
presidency. He died in Jersey City, Decem- 
ber 4, 1894. 



28 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



NAST, Thomas, 

Caricaturist, Painter, 

Thomas Nast was born in Landau, Ba- 
varia, September 27, 1840, son of Thoinas 
and Apollonia (Apres) Nast. His father, 
a musician of abiHty, for many years held a 
position in the Bavarian army, but in 1846, 
having received timely warning of the ap- 
proach of the revolution which two years 
later convulsed Europe, he emigrated to 
America with his family. For some time 
he was a member of the famous Philhar- 
monic Society of New York City, appearing 
frequently in concerts, etc., and was en- 
gaged at the old Burton Theater, Chambers 
street. He died in 1856. 

The son was educated in the New York 
public schools, and, displaying a decided 
talent for art, at the age of fourteen began 
a six-months' course of study with Theo- 
dore Kaufman, an artist of some note. He 
received no other training whatever, and 
immediately thereafter was employed in 
taking sketches and furnishing drawings for 
"Frank Leslie's Illustrated Newspaper." In 
i860 he sketched the Heenan-Sayers prize 
fight in England, for the New York "Il- 
lustrated News," and soon after went to 
Italy to follow the army of Garibaldi in the 
victorious campaign through Sicily and Cal- 
abria. He contributed numerous battle pic- 
tures to the illustrated press of New York, 
London, and Paris; and as an aide on Gen- 
eral Garibaldi's staflf was entrusted with 
several diplomatic missions of delicacy and 
importance. He returned to the United 
States in February, 1861. and continued his 
work with the "Illustrated News" until he 
formed a permanent connection with "Har- 
per's Weekly," in July, 1862. His Itahan 
experience had given him a training in 
sketching battle scenes such as had been en- 
joyed by no other American artist ; and his 
work in this line during the remainder of 
the war, as well as his numerous pictorial 
comments on the current situations, wielded 
a vast influence on the side of the Union, 



placing "Harper's Weekly" among the fore- 
most journals of the day. However, during 
the period of reconstruction, after the close 
of the war, Mr. Nast did his most mem- 
orable and historic work. His peerless pic- 
torial satires accomplished more against the 
inevitable corruption in government affairs 
than all the mass of invective evoked by the 
trying conditions of the times. From 1870 
until 1875 'is produced a succession of hum- 
orous cartoons setting forth the frauds and 
peculations of William M. Tweed and the 
"rings" which had seized control of the var- 
ious departments in New York City ; and 
as a consequence, public opinion was stirred, 
the matter investigated and the rings broken 
up. Mr. Nast continued his work for 
"Harper's Weekly" until the end of 1886, 
but finding himself unable to support the 
Republican nominees in 1884, became an 
ardent upholder of the Cleveland ticket. For 
several years after 1872, he prepared and 
published "Nast's Illustrated Almanac" and 
afterward illustrated the works of Petro- 
leum V. Nasby and other comic writers, as 
well as an edition of Robinson Crusoe, and 
furnished a set of colored caricatures of 
well known men for "Bal d' Opera." A 
particular feature of Mr. Nast's work, apart 
from his wonderful portraits, was the abil- 
ity to portray the individuality of his sub- 
jects by some characteristic pose or pecu- 
liarity of apparel, never leaving any uncer- 
tainty regarding the object of his satire. 
Thus, in the rotund figure with the money- 
bag face, none could fail to recognize 
Tweed. The characteristic coat and boots 
with the famous Gratz Brown tag always 
revealed Horace Greeley ; and the exagger- 
ated eye-glasses and lank figure indicated 
that A. Oakey Hall was taking his turn up- 
on the rack. Mr. Nast's work in this direc- 
tion was one of the pioneer efforts in the 
substitution of the topical cartoon for the 
"leader" of the old fashioned newspaper. 
While comparatively few would read and 
appreciate the latter, the former appealed to 
all classes. Tweed once remarked that the 



29 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



"reading" was of little account, but that it 
was the pictures that bothered him. A new 
era in journahsm thus began. The spirited 
drawings with their varied symboHsms and 
relentless ridicule were a power in moving 
popular sentiment and compelling a right- 
ing of wrongs. Among the most noted 
symbols invented by Mr. Nast were the 
"Americus" tiger for Tammany, the Repub- 
lican G. O. P. elephant, the Democratic 
jackass, the inflationist rag baby, the buz- 
zard clipped dollar, the bloody shirt of an- 
archy, and others which have become the 
common stock of present-day political cari- 
catures. 

As a painter, Mr. Nast produced many 
works which for beauty of conception and 
execution hold high rank in American art. 
His largest painting, "The Departure of the 
7th Regiment from New York in 1861," 
now hangs in the regimental armory ; and 
among his other notable productions are 
"Peace Again" (1865); "Lincoln Entering 
Richmond" (1868): "Saving the Flag" 
{1894) ; "Peace in U^nion" (nine by twelve 
feet), now in the public library at Galena, 
Illinois, (1895): "St. Nicholas" (1895), 
now hanging in the St. Nicholas club house. 
New York City : "Immortal Light of Gen- 
ius" (1896), painted for Sir Henry Irving. 
In 1873, 1875 and again in 1888 Mr. 
Nast made lecturing tours though the 
I ^nited States, accompanying his entertain- 
ing and witty talks with off-hand sketches 
and caricatures in colored crayons and in 
oil on canvas. In 1892 he conducted a 
paper known as "Nast's Weekly," started 
against the New York police and continued 
for the presidential campaign, which con- 
tained many of his best efforts of late years. 
He lived at Morristown, New Jersey, devot- 
ing most of his time to painting and contrib- 
uting an occasional cartoon to some illus- 
trated paper. Socially he enjoyed a wide 
popularity ; was happy and sanguine in tem- 
perament, and always ready with some jest 
or witticism, although at bottom more than 
ordinarily in earnest. It was the intensity 



of his convictions that lent power to hu 
pencil and made him prominent in all mat- 
ters he touched. Among the most treasured 
ornaments in his elegant residence was a 
splendid silver vase presented to him by the 
Union League Club of New York City in 
recognition of his services in the Federal 
cause ; and another in canteen shape, and 
with his portrait crowned in relief, presented 
by 3.500 officers and enlisted men in the 
United States amiy and navy. Mr. Nast 
was enlisted in the 7th Regiment at the time 
of the Orange riots in 1871, and was for 
many years a member of the 7th Regiment 
Veteran Club; also of the Union League 
since 1867, and of the Players since 1889. 
He was married, September 20, 1861, to 
Sarah, daughter of George and Sarah 
( Leach ) Edwards, of London, England. He 
died in 1902. 



ALLEN, William Frederick, 

Distinguished Metrologist. 

William Frederick Allen was born in 
P)Ordentown, New Jersey, October 9, 1846, 
son of Colonel Joseph Warner Allen, a civil 
engineer. State Senator, Deputy Quarter- 
master-General, and Colonel of the 9th New 
Jersey Volunteers, who, while serving with 
his regiment in Bumside's expedition on 
the coast of North Carolina, 1861-62, was 
drowned off Hatteras Inlet while endeav- 
oring to report to the commanding general 
(luring the storm, January 13, 1862. 

William Frederick Allen attended the 
Protestant Episcopal Academy in Philadel- 
phia, Pennsylvania. In 1862, after his 
father's death, he became a rodman on the 
Camden & Amboy railroad, and in 1863 
was promoted to be assistant engineer. He 
engaged in several roads then in course of 
construction in New Jersey, and in 1868 
was appointed resident engineer of the 
West Jersey railroad, and founded the 
town of Wenonah, New Jersey. On Oc- 
tober I, 1872, he became assistant editor of 
the "Travellers' Official Guide," and in 



30 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



May, 1873, was made its editor, and busi- 
ness manager of the National Railway Pub- 
lication Company, then, of Philadelphia, 
afterwards of New York. In 1875 Mr. 
Allen was elected permanent secretary of 
the General Time Convention, composed 
of the general managers and superintend- 
ents of the principal railroad trunk lines, 
which then met to determine upon sched- 
ules of through trains on the eastern and 
western railroads. In the following year 
he was elected secretary of the Southern 
Time Convention, consisting of representa- 
tives of the leading southern railway lines. 
These conventions were consolidated in 
1886, and from them the American Rail- 
way Association developed, and Mr. ./Mien 
became secretary. The adoption of stand- 
ard time, based upon the Greenwich mer- 
idian, on a detailed plan proposed by him, 
was largely due to the efforts of Mr. Allen. 
By unanimous resolutions of the conven- 
tions, he was accorded their thanks for the 
accomplishment of the practical part of the 
work which was principally done between 
August 15 and November 18. 1883. The 
same system was afterwards adopted in 
Japan, Australia, Germany, Austria, Swed- 
en, Switzerland, Italy, Belgium, Holland, 
Roumania, Servia, and part of Turkey, for 
which purpose a large amount of informa- 
tion was furnished by Mr. Allen. Mr. Al- 
len was appointed by President Arthur one 
of the five delegates to represent the United 
States at the International Meridian Con- 
ference held in Washington in October. 
1884. Twenty-five nations were repre- 
sented, and the Greenwich meridian was 
adopted as the prime meridian and stand- 
ard time of reckoning. An address de- 
livered by Mr. Allen on "Standard Time as 
Adopted in the United States" was re- 
printed in many languages, with the pro- 
ceedings of the conference. On April 22, 
1890, he was elected an honorary member 
of the K. K. Geographical Society of 
Vienna, Austria, in recognition of his ser- 
vices in the adoption of standard time. He 



was selected as one of eight delegates to 
represent the American Railway Associa- 
tion at the meeting of the International 
Railway Congress held in London, Eng- 
land, in June and July, 1895, ^^ which the 
railways of thirty-six nations were repre- 
sented. He was one of the council of the 
American Metrological Society for intro- 
ducing the metric system ; a member of the 
American Economic Society ; of the Amer- 
ican Society for the Advancement of 
Science ; of the American Academy of Poli- 
tical and Social Science, and of the Ameri- 
can Statistical Association. 



BURNS, John, 

Civilian Hero of Gettysburg. 

John Burns, whose courageous but un- 
military conduct at the famous battle of 
Gettysburg, in July, 1863, was made the 
theme of one of Bret Harte's most stirring 
poetical effusions, was a native of New Jer- 
sey, born in Burlington, September 5, 1793. 
In the War of 1812 with Great Britain, he 
was among the earliest volunteers, and in 
the battle of Lundy's Lane was of Colonel 
Miller's regiment, which turned the tide of 
battle in favor of the Americans. He also 
served in the Mexican War, but record of 
his service is not available. In 1861, the 
opening year of the Civil War period, not- 
withstanding his extreme age of sixty- 
eight years, he again volunteered for mili- 
tary service, but of course was rejected by 
the examining surgeon. However, he se- 
cured an engagement as an army teamster, 
but when opportunity offered, left his team 
and went into the ranks, musket in hand. 
When the Confederate troops reached Get- 
tysburg, Pennsylvania, in July, 1863, he was 
a resident of the place, and occupying the 
position of constable. Asserting his posi- 
tion as a guardian of the peace, he busied 
himself with denouncing the invaders and 
ordering them to leave the place, for which 
officiousness he was locked up by the Con- 
federates in his own calaboose. However, 



31 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



he managed to release himself, and with a 
musket and ammunition taken from a 
U'ounded soldier, kept up a fire against 
the enemy during a whole day, only ceas- 
ing when he received a wound, was made 
prisoner, and narrowly escaped instant exe- 
cution as a non-uniformed and civilian com- 
batant, who had by his conduct forfeited 
his rights to any consideration. After the 
restoration of peace, he made his home on 
the battle field and was made a favorite by 
visitors, to whom he described the events 
in which he had participated, and who re- 
warded him with generous liberality. He 
was always erratic, possibly illy balanced, 
and eventually lost his mind. On one oc- 
casion of mental aberration, he wandered to 
New York, and one night in December, 
1871, was found in the street, almost froz- 
en. His identity becoming known, he was 
taken in charge, cared for, and when par- 
tially recovered was taken to his home in 
Gettysburg, where he died, February 7, the 
following year. 



RUMSEY. George Benjamin, 

Prominent Financier. 

Three generations of the Rumseys have 
been connected with the cashier's depart- 
ment of the Salem Banking Company, this 
service beginning in 1842 with George Clark 
Rumsey, who was cashier until his death in 
1851. In course of time his son, Henry 
Martin Rumsey, came into the bank's ser- 
vice, becoming cashier in 1881, an office he 
yet holds. In turn, his son, George B. 
Rumsey, has maintained a connection with 
the bank since 1865 — the Salem National 
Ranking Company, became assistant to his 
father, and was holding that office at the 
time of his death. The record of the first 
Rumsey was that he was "one of the most 
efficient officers connected with the insti- 
tution." Of Henry M. Rumsey it may be 
recorded that he is in every way a worthy 
successor to his father, and that he has been 
a. pillar of strength to the institution with 



which he has been associated for nearly 
half a century. Of George B. Rumsey, of 
the third generation, no eulogy is too glow- 
ing. He possessed all the graces of mind 
and personal characteristics of his sires, 
and in the bank was the constant influence 
that dispelled clouds and frowns, pouring 
oil upon the troubled waters that often 
threatened to destroy friendly relations be- 
tween bank and customers, his rare tact, 
unfailing self control, and kindly words re- 
storing confidence and good feeling. Ster- 
ling in his integrity, capable in his work, 
and thoroughly familiar with every detail 
of modern banking, he was a valued assis- 
tant to his father, whose increasing years 
welcomed the strong support of the son's 
devotion. He literally died in the harness, 
as but the day previous to his death he had 
returned from a meeting of the American 
Bankers' Association at Richmond, Vir- 
ginia, and the following morning was at his 
desk in the bank as usual. A few hours 
later his honorable term of fifteen years 
service with the bank ended, the last deposit 
received, the last check paid, and the ac- 
count closed. Grandfather, father, and son 
— of these but one remains, Henry M. 
Rumsey, who, despite his years, is still the 
able, thorough-going cashier and man of 
affairs. 

George B. Rumsey came of honored an- 
cestry, his family dating in Salem county. 
New Jersey, from George C. Rumsey, 
grandson of Colonel Charles Rumsey, an 
officer of the Revolution, from Cecil county, 
Maryland. Colonel Charles was a descend- 
ant of Charles Rumsey, who came to Amer- 
ica from Wales in 1665, landing at Charles- 
ton, South Carolina, later visiting and in- 
vestigating in New York and Philadelphia, 
finally, prior to 1678, choosing a location in 
Cecil county, Maryland, at the head of the 
Bohemia river. He willed considerable 
land to his sons, who continued to reside 
in Cecil county. Edward Rumsey, one of 
the sons of the founder, was left one hun- 
dred acres on the river, and his son, James 



32 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Rumsey, was the inventor of a method of 
propelling boats by a stream of water forced 
through a cyhnder, passing out at the stern 
of the boat. He was born at the Bohemia 
river farm in 1743, but at the time of per- 
fecting his invention was living in Vir- 
ginia. In 1792 he was in London, England, 
in the interests of his invention, was there 
stricken with apoplexy and died. 

The line of descent to George B. Rum- 
sey was through William Rumsey, son of 
Charles Rumsey, the emigrant from Wales. 
William was born April 21. 1698, and be- 
came one of the largest landowners of Ce- 
cil county, his will distributing about thirty- 
five thousand acres to his heirs. His home 
on Middle Neck, Cecil county, Maryland, 
was one of the finest of colonial mansions, 
a massive brick building containing thirty 
rooms, and there he dispensed a royal hos- 
pitality. He was a noted civil engineer and 
surveyor, laid out Fredericktown, located 
the temporary boundary line between Mary- 
land and Pennsylvania in 1739, and also aid- 
ed in other important surveying operations 
in Maryland. He was L^nited States Collec- 
tor of Customs and one of the leading men 
of his section. He married Sabina Blanken- 
burg, and at his death in 1742 left sons and 
daughters, all generously remembered in his 
will. 

Colonel Charles Rumsey, son of William 
and Sabina (Blankenburg) Rumsey, was 
born at the Cecil county mansion of the 
Rumseys in 1736. He was a leading pub- 
lic man of his day, a member of the Coun- 
cil in 1775, a member of the Committee of 
Safety in 1776, and a colonel of the Elk 
Battalion, Cecil County Militia, rendering 
important service in field and council. With 
the children of Colonel Charles Rumsey. Ce- 
cil county ceased to be the family seat. The 
name is now almost unknown there, but the 
descendants of the Welsh ancestor have 
achieved prominence in many other locali- 
ties where they have made their homes. 
Colonel Charles Rumsey married Abigail 
Jane Caner. daughter of Reverend Richard 

33 

n-3 



and Emma (Oxon) Caner, the former a 
clergyman of the Episcopal church in Cecil 
county. 

Benjamin, son of Colonel Charles Rumsey, 
was born in Cecil county, Maryland, Janu- 
ary 26, 1772, died April i, 1803. He was 
a wealthy landowner and man of prom- 
inence. He married Mary, daughter of 
George Clark, of Middletown, Delaware. 
Children : Charles, Ann Jane, married Ba- 
con Ware, George C, and Eliza B. 

George Clark, son of Benjamin and Mary 
(Clark) Rumsey, was born in Middletown, 
Delaware, November 24, 1798, died in Sa- 
lem, New Jersey, December 28, 185 1. His 
early life was spent in Delaware, his early 
business life in Salem, where he was a mer- 
chant until 1841. Six years prior to that 
time he had been elected a director of the 
Salem Banking Company, and in the board 
had displayed such wisdom and financial 
aptitude that in 1842 he was elected cashier 
of the bank, serving with the greatest zeal 
and ability in that position and as director 
until his death. He was a man of wide ex- 
perience and sound judgment, qualities that 
made him a valuable partner in many busi- 
ness enterprises in which he was engaged 
outside of the bank. He owned consider- 
able land in Salem county, and although 
stricken in the prime of life with a fatal 
illness accomplished a vast amount of good 
in his community. He was an elder of the 
First Presbyterian Church of Salem, and 
a Whig in politics, having been a Democrat 
in early life. He married Margaret Ca- 
narroe, born in 1797, died April 9, 1883, 
daughter of Antrim and Margaret (Me- 
cum ) Canarroe, the former a descendant of 
Roger and Elizabeth (Stevenson) Canarroe 
(originally Conars) who came from Devon- 
shire, England, in 1681 and settled in Sa- 
lem. Margaret (Mecum) Canarroe was a 
daughter of William and Eleanor (Sinnick- 
son) Mecum. of the ancient Salem county 
families of Sinnickson and Mecum, else- 
where recorded in this work. 

Henry M., only child of George C. and 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Margaret (Canarroe) Rumsey, was born in 
Salem, New Jersey, August 24, 1838, and 
has spent his years (seventy-seven) in his 
native city. Since 1863 he has been of- 
ficially connected with the Salem National 
Banking Company, the first four years as 
director only, then as clerk; from 1871 to 
1881 as assistant cashier, and since 1881 as 
cashier, his combined services covering near- 
ly a half century of banking experience 
with the original Salem Banking Company 
and the present Salem National Banking 
Company. He is an elder of the First Pres- 
byterian Church, is one of the charter mem- 
bers of the New Jersey Society, Sons of the 
Revolution, and is one of the valuable men 
of his city. He married, November 24, 
1859, Maria Elliott, daughter of Benjamin 
and Mary Bassett, of Mannington town- 
ship. Children : Margaret C. married 
Thomas Tatnall, of Wilmington, Delaware ; 
George Benjamin ; Mary Acton, married 
R. Wyatt W^istar. of Salem. New Jersey. 
Maria Elliott (Bassett) Rumsey was born 
August 22, 1837, died September 6, 1910. In 
November, 1909, Mr. and Mrs. Rumsey cel- 
ebrated the golden anniversary of their wed- 
ding day at their Salem home, their many 
friends and close relatives joining in felic- 
itation and gifts. She was a woman of 
sweetness of character, of alert mind, ac- 
tive in good works, and greatly beloved. 

George Benjamin, only son of Henry M. 
and Maria Elliott (Bassett) Rumsey, was 
born in Salem. June 7, 1865, died in his na- 
tive city, October 16, 1914, after but a few 
hours' illness. He was educated in the pub- 
lic schools of Salem, and as a young man 
began business life in the service of the Sa- 
lem Oil Cloth Works, a concern with which 
he was associated in responsible position 
for fifteen years. Subsequently he was em- 
ployed in the office of the Collector of In- 
ternal Revenue, at Camden, resigning his 
position to contract relations with the Salem 
National Banking Company, with which 
service the family name is conspicuously 



connected. He was his father's assistant in 
the office of cashier at the time of his death, 
energetic, willing, and capable, and the com- 
pany feels the loss of a useful member, its 
personnel mourning a true friend. 

His straightforward, upright life com- 
pelled admiration, as a pleasing and agree- 
able manner won liking. His influence in 
Salem was that which belongs to a life lived 
openly and cleanly, dominated by strong 
purpose and guided by lofty principle. The 
high ideals that he made his aim were 
never lowered under trial, and many who 
knew him testify to the personal value of 
his example and effort. He was a mem- 
ber and treasurer of the First Presbyterian 
Church, and like his grandfather and father 
held the office of ruling elder. His only 
public office was that of city treasurer, to 
which he was elected as a Republican, a 
party he always favored. Among several 
other fraternal connections he was a mem- 
ber of the Masonic order, and at his death 
was treasurer of the Fenwick Club, an of- 
fice he had previously held in the Salem 
Country Club. 

George B. Rumsey married, December 
18, 1906, Constance, daughter of Constant 
M. and Maria H. (Smith) Eakin, who sur- 
vives him, a resident of Salem. Children : 
Constance Canarroe, born December i, 
1907; Eleanor Margaret, January 11, 1909: 
Alice May Eakin, August 20, 191 1. These 
children are great-great-great-grandchildren 
of Judge William Hancock, who was killed 
by the Queen's Rangers, a body of Tories 
and British, in the doorway of his own home 
at Hancock's Bridge, on the night of March 
21, 1778. The memory of those who per- 
ished in the massacre at the Hancock house 
!■< fittingly preserved by a memorial tablet 
erected by Oak Tree Chapter, D. A. R., 
of Salem, unveiled by Miss Constance D. 
Eakin, great-great-granddaughter of Judge 
Hancock, June 14, 1903. Judge Hancock 
was a grandson of William Hancock, the 
founder of the Hancock family in Salem. 



.3-1 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



EAKIN, Constant M., 

Financier, PnbUo Otfieial. 

Among the Salem lawyers of more than 
half a century ago, preeminent place was 
accorded Alphonso L. Eakin, who for for- 
ty-five years occupied a position at the bar 
that was in itself expressive recognition 
of exceptionally able talent. Following him 
in connection with Salem institutions and 
enterprises was Constant M. Eakin, who, 
a native of Salem, there passed his entire 
life. 

It is now more than a quarter of a cen- 
tury since Constant M. Eakin followed his 
accustomed paths in the place of his birth, 
paths that were wider and penetrated into 
more activities than many of his contem- 
poraries realized. To Constant M. Eakin 
fell the misfortune of possessing a physique 
that in strength and vigor fell far behind 
his mental powers, and he was deprived by 
bodily weakness from assuming the place 
of leadership in activity among his fellows 
to which his capacity of mind and intellect 
entitled him. Thus handicapped in his 
work of life, he nevertheless made felt a 
strong influence, his plans executed by oth- 
ers, the deeds he would have done per- 
formed by other hands. To the public he 
was known through his presidency of the 
Salem National Bank and as a silent part- 
ner in many other enterprises. In his pub- 
lic spirited generosity his means were often 
used to carry through periods of financial 
uncertainty industrial and commercial con- 
cerns whose existence was of benefit to the 
city, and all worthy projects in Salem 
found in him a friend and supporter. Thus, 
though by nature and endowments a leader 
and organizer, physical frailties compelled 
him to restrain his desires, to conserve his 
energy, and to make others his representa- 
tives in the fields he could not enter in per- 
son. The honor that was accorded him by 
those who knew of his private life was as 
sincere and enduring as though he had him- 
self taken prominence in many fields, and 



his aid, suggestions, and encouragement, his 
invaluable work as a helper, often told the 
true story of success. 

Johnson, in his "Historical Account of 
the First Settlement of Salem," states that 
in 1778 Rev. Samuel Eakin became pastor 
of Penn's Neck Presbyterian Church, con- 
tinuing until the close of the American Rev- 
olution. He was in the opinion of the his- 
torian, "raised up especially by Providence 
to aid Jerseymen in their exertion to over- 
throw the enemies of our country, and was 
considered scarcely inferior to the celebrated 
Whitfield. He was a true Whig and an ar- 
dent defender of the American cause. 
Wherever there were military trainings or 
an order issued for a detachment of sol- 
diers to march he was there if in his power 
to be there and address them and by his 
most powerful eloquence would rouse their 
feelings to the highest pitch. Such was the 
inspiring efiFect of his eloquence operating 
upon the passions of the miUtary in so 
wonderful a manner that they were ever 
ready to lay down their lives for their coun- 
try. The soldiers not only loved him but 
they idolized him. Such a man was ChafH 
lain Samuel Eakin." He was of French 
descent and one of a family that later 
was prominent in official life in Washing- 
ton and of importance in many other com- 
munities. He is the first of the family men- 
tioned in Salem county records although 
the history of that county has been en- 
riched by the deeds of his descendants. 

Alphonso L. Eakin, father of Constant 
M. Eakin, was born in the province of Lor- 
raine, France, June 27, 1799, son of Samuel 
Eakin, of Mount Holly, New Jersey, who 
at the time of the birth of his son was 
serving the United States government in 
official capacity in Lorraine. After the re- 
turn of the family to the United States, 
Alphonso L. completed his studies, and 
prior to 1822 located in Salem, New Jer- 
sey, where he studied law under William 
N. Jeflfers. He was licensed an attorney in 
1822, a counsellor in 1825, and practiced 



35 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



law in Salem from his admission to the 
bar until his death, October 29, 1866. He 
was a very successful lawyer, noted for mi- 
nute preparation and careful procedure, and 
applied his vast legal learning to his daily 
practice in a manner skillful and able. Ac- 
curacy of statement, certainty of authority, 
and a convincing manner of presentation 
were noticeable points in all of his argu- 
ments, and he was known widely for his 
integrity and uprightness. From under his 
tuition there developed several lawyers 
whose records were a credit to his teach- 
ing, a source of inspiration they gladly ac- 
knowledged. Alphonso L. Eakin was a far- 
sighted and progressive business man as 
well as a lawyer of profound learning, and 
during the forty-five years of his practice 
in Salem by wise investments accumulated 
a fortune. He is buried in the First Pres- 
byterian Cemetery, Salem, and his wife, 
Eliza, born January 5, 1805, died October 
16, 1879, lies by his side. 

Constant M., son of Alphonso L. and 
Eliza Eakin, was born in Salem, New Jer- 
sey, June 2, 1843, died there April 26, 
1885. He was well educated, and at the 
end of his school years began his quiet con- 
nection with Salem enterprises. In 1878 
he w?s elected president of the Salem Na- 
tional Bank, a position he most capably 
filled until his death. He served his city as 
a n- mber of council, and in a little noticed, 
unobtrusive way aided by influence, voice, 
and means all those enterprises that date 
from his period. Although a greatly be- 
loved member of the Fenwick Club and an 
"out-of-town" member of the Philadelphia 
Qub, he was emphatically a home lover and 
there spent his happiest hours. His im- 
pulses were noble, and sprang from a heart 
full of sympathy and brotherhood. He 
was of a sensitive nature, and this, coupled 
with a reticent disposition, made him loth 
to reveal his true physical condition, the 
public not at all understanding his poor 
state of health. But he fought the grim 
destroyer bravely, and until about three 

36 



months before his death was not absent 
from his usual pursuits. He is buried in 
the family plot in the Presbyterian Ceme- 
tery, at Salem, by the side of his honored 
father and mother. 

Mr. Eakin married Maria H., daughter of 
Thomas Smith, who survives him, a resident 
of Salem, with her daughters, Constance, 
widow of George B. Rumsey, and Eleanor, 
unmarried. 



MILLER, Jacob W., 

Iiaivyer, Statesman. 

One of the picturesque figures in the 
political arena during ante-bellum days 
was Jacob W. Miller, the last Whig Sena- 
tor from New Jersey. Possessed of very 
strong and sincere convictions, he added to 
them the greatest industry, complete faith- 
fulness to those who depended on him, and 
a high degree of tact. Eloquence seemed 
to be a family possession in which at least 
his brother, William W. Miller, shared in 
an unusual degree, since, though he died a 
young man, he has left behind him a repu- 
tation for eloquence in the New Jersey bar 
which perseveres to this day. 

Jacob W. Miller was born in 1800, i 
German Valley, Morris county. New Jersey, 
and received in boyhood an excellent edu- 
cation. He determined upon the law as a 
profession and studied with his elder 
brother, William W. Miller, whose elo- 
quence has just been remarked. He was 
admitted to the bar, and began at once a 
practice which his great ability soon in- 
creased to large dimensions. He was for a 
time associated in partnership with Ed- 
ward W. Whelpley, a brilliant young law- 
yer wlio afterwards became Chief Justice 
of the Supreme Court of New Jersey. 

In 1838, Jacob W. Miller was sent to the 
State Legislature, where his ability as a 
speaker and wisdom as a counsellor were 
so conspicuous that the same Legislature 
in 1840 elected him to Congress as United 
States Senator from New Jersey. Here it 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



was that he distinguished himself greatly 
by his eloquence and energy. To dis- 
tinguish oneself for eloquence in the 
United States Senate at that period has an 
unusual meaning, when we remember that 
there were congregated there Webster, 
Clay, Calhoun, and many others whose 
names have become immortal for this very 
quality. Of this brilliant group Miller 
formed one, and he was not unworthy of 
his company. It is said that he did not 
speak frequently, but was a keen listener 
and a great student of every measure in- 
troduced into the body, and that, when he 
would break his silence, there was no one 
listened to with more attention and respect. 
He proposed vigorously many new ideas 
that were coming to have influence with 
the people, and which he regarded as sub- 
versive of the sound principles upon 
which the government was founded. 
Among these was the annexation of Texas, 
which act he thought totally at variance 
with the spirit of freedom in our institu- 
tions. He delivered a most effective address 
against the proposal, in which he declared 
that if Texas brought with her the riches 
of India, he would reject her, and quoted 
Aristides' report to Athens upon the strat- 
egy of Themistocles : "Nothing could be 
more advantageous, but at the same time 
nothing could be more unjust." He was 
fighting, however, for a lost cause, and in 
1855, two years after he had lost his seat 
to a Democratic successor, he gave up the 
unequal strife. It was not, however, for 
lack of faith in his cause, nor its final vic- 
tory. He hailed the new Republican party 
as the deliverer, and allied himself with it 
heart and soul, throwing the whole force 
of his character and the whole power of 
his eloquence into the cause of the Union. 
He spoke and worked indefatigably for 
this, his ideal, and, though he could not but 
view with apprehension the approaching 
conflict, he never for a moment feared for 
the final outcome. He foresaw, but was not 
permitted to view, the event, as death 

37 



claimed him in the year 1862, at his home 

in Morristown. In many particulars his 
fortune was paralleled by that of his emi- 
nent contemporary and fellow statesman, 
Theodore Frelinghuysen, whose politics, 
like Miller's, were conservative, who also 
fought as long as might be with the Whigs, 
who finally allied himself with the new Re- 
publican party, and fought his best for the 
preservation of the Union, and who, like 
Miller, was denied the happiness of seeing 
the outcome of their efforts, dying, as did 
also Miller, in 1862. As an example at 
once of Miller's faith and of his eloquence, 
the following words from an oration de- 
livered in Morristown will serve admir- 
ably: 

Let us not be moved by the cry of fanatics, 
nor alarmed at the threats of secessionists ; they 
are as the angry waves which vainly howl about 
the battlements and spend their fury upon the 
unshaken towers of our political fortress. Poli- 
ticians may fret and fume ; State conventions may 
resolve and re-resolve ; and Congress itself be- 
come the arena of fearful agitations ; but above 
and around, as in a mighty amphitheatre, in 
undisturbed and undismayed majesty, stands the 
American people, with steady eye and giant 
hand, overlooking all and governing all ; and 
wo ! wo ! to the man, and destruction to the 
State, that attempts to resist their supreme au- 
thority. 

Mr. Miller died in Morristown, Septem- 
ber 30, 1862, leaving a widow (a daughter 
of George P. Macculloch), and sev ral 
children. 



DU PONT, Samuel Francis, 

Disting^nished Naval Officer. 

Admiral Samuel Francis Du Pont was 
born at Bergen Point, New Jersey, Sep- 
tember 27, 1803, son of Victor Marie Du 
Pont de Nemours. He was appointed a 
midshipman in the navy from the State of 
Delaware, on December 19, 1815, his first 
service being on the "Franklin," in the Eu- 
ropean squadron, from which ship he was 
transferred to the "Erie" on the same sta- 
tion. In 1 82 1 he returned to the Mediter- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ranean, serving for a year on the "Consti- 
tution," until ordered home for examina- 
tion, after which he was attached to the 
"Congress," in the West Indies and on the 
coast of Brazil. He was again in the Med- 
iterranean in 1824 in the "North Caro- 
lina," of which vessel he became sailing 
master, four months of this cruise being 
spent on the "Porpoise," to which he was 
ordered soon after his promotion as lieu- 
tenant, April 28, 1826. Attached to the 
"Ontario" in 1829, he made another three 
years' cruise in European waters, and from 
1835 to 1838 was executive officer of the 
"Warren" and of the "Constellation," and 
commanded the "Grampus" and the "War- 
ren" in the Gulf of Mexico. In September 
of the latter year he joined the "Ohio," 
flagship of Commodore Hull in the Medi- 
terranean squadron, his cruise ending in 
1 84 1. Promoted commander in 1842 he 
sailed for China in the "Perry," but a se- 
vere illness forced him to give up his com- 
mand and return home. In 1849 he was 
ordered to the Pacific as commander of the 
"Congress," the flagship of Commodore 
Stockton. 

The Mexican War had begun when the 
ship arrived in California, and Du Pont 
was assigned to the command of the "Cy- 
ane," July 23, 1846. With this vessel he 
captured San Diego, took possession of La 
Paz, the capital of Lower California, spiked 
the guns of San Bias, and entered the bar- 
bar of Guaymas, burning two gimboats and 
cutting out a Mexican brig under a heavy 
fire. These operations cleared the Gulf of 
California of hostile vessels, some thirty of 
which were taken or destroyed. He took 
part in the capture of Mazatlan under Com- 
modore Shubrick, November 11, 1847, lead- 
ing the line of boats which entered the main 
harbor. On February 15, 1848. Du Pont 
landed at San Jose with a naval force and 
engaged a large body of Mexicans, march- 
ing three miles inland and successfully re- 
lieving Lieutenant Heywood's detachment, 
closely besieged in the Mission House and 



about to surrender. Later he led or sent 
out various expeditions into the interior 
which cooperated with Colonel Burton and 
Lieutenant (afterward General) Halleck, 
who were moving southward, clearing the 
country of hostile troops and taking many 
prisoners. Ordered home in 1848, he be- 
came captain in 1855, and two years later 
went on special service to China in com- 
mand of the "Minnesota," witnessing while 
there the naval operations of the French 
and English forces, notably their capture 
of the Chinese forts on the Peiho. After 
visiting Japan, India and Arabia, he re- 
turned with his ship to Boston, in May, 

1859- 

Placed in command of the Philadelphia 
Navy Yard on December 31, i860, he took, 
on his own responsibility, the most prompt 
and energetic measures, when the Civil 
War opened in 1861. When communica- 
tion with Washington was cut off, he sent 
a naval force to the Chesapeake to protect 
the landing of troops at Annapolis. In 
June, 1 861, he was made president of a 
board which convened at Washington to 
elaborate a general plan of naval operations 
against the Confederate States. Appointed 
flag officer in September, he led the expedi- 
tion which sailed from Norfolk in the fol- 
lowing month, no American officer having 
before commanded so large a fleet. On 
November 7 he successfully attacked the 
strong fortifications defending Port Royal 
harbor. Ably planned and skillfully exe- 
cuted, this engagement is justly regarded 
as one of the most brilliant achievements of 
our navy. His unarmored vessels, divided 
into main and flanking divisions, steamed 
into the harbor in two parallel columns. 
The flanking division, after engaging the 
smaller fort and drawing back the enemy's 
vessels, took position to enfilade the princi- 
pal work, before which the main column, led 
by the flagship "Wabash," passed and re- 
passed in elliptical course, its tremendous 
fire inflicting heavy damage. Although the 
casualties during the engagement were in- 



38 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



considerable, its importance is not to be 
measured by the small number of killed 
and wounded — indicative, in this case, of 
the professional ability and tactical skill 
with which the victory was won. The bat- 
tle of Port Royal, occurring a little less 
than seven months after the fall of Fort 
Sumter, was of surpassing value in its mor- 
al and political effect, both at home and 
abroad. It gave us one of the finest har- 
bors on the Atlantic seaboard, which af- 
forded an admirable base for future opera- 
tions by the establishment of coaling sta- 
tions, shops and supply depots. Du Pont 
actively followed up his victory; Tybee Is- 
land was seized, giving a foothold for the 
reduction of Fort Pulaski by the army ; a 
combined naval and military force destroyed 
the batteries at Port Royal ferry; the 
sounds and inland waters of Georgia and 
the east coast of Florida were occupied ; St. 
Mary's, Fernandina, Jacksonville, and other 
places were captured, and Fort Clinch and 
the fort at St. Augustine retaken ; fourteen 
blockading stations were established, all 
thoroughly effective save that off Charles- 
ton, where the vessels at command were in- 
sufficient to cover the circuit of twenty- 
three miles. In recognition of his services, 
I>u Pont received the thanks of Congress 
and was appointed rear-admiral to rank 
from July 1 6, 1862. Toward the close of 
the year, several armored vessels were 
added to his command, mostly of the mon- 
itor type — one of which destroyed the Con- 
federate steamer "Nashville," when aground 
near Fort McAllister, Georgia. Desiring to 
measure the ironclads against forts com- 
manding obstructed channels. Admiral Du 
Pont sent three monitors, supported by six 
other ships, to engage Fort McAllister, upon 
which they were unable to make any im- 
pression on account of the small number of 
their guns and the slowness of their fire. 
This satisfied the admiral that their offen- 
sive power had been overrated, and he re- 
ported to the Navy Department that what- 



ever degree of impenetrability monitors 
might have, there was no corresponding 
quality of destructiveness as against forts. 
On April 7, 1863, Du Pont, taking command 
of his nine armored vessels, made a resolute 
attempt to take Charleston. Unable to 
manoeuvre in the tortuous channel leading 
to the harbor, which was filled with obstruc- 
tions and torpedoes, the ironclads were ex- 
posed to a terrible cross-fire from a hun- 
dred guns of the heaviest calibres. His 
flagship, the "Ironsides," which was lead- 
ing, steered so badly under the influence of 
the current that it was twice necessary to 
drop anchors to bring her head to the prop- 
er direction, and when within fifteen hun- 
dred yards or less of Fort Sumter she lay 
for a considerable time directly over a huge 
torpedo, which, fortunately for those on 
board, the electrician at Battery Wagner 
was unable to explode. Darkness approach- 
ing, the ships were withdrawn with the in- 
tention of continuing the engagement on ihe 
following day, but when morning came, one 
of the ironclads having foundered from in- 
juries received during the engagement (in 
which she was struck ninety times), and 
five others being wholly or partially dis- 
abled ( many of them having received over 
fifty shots). Admiral Du Pont wisely de- 
termined not to invite a great disaster by a 
renewal of the attack. The action was 
fought in pursuance of express instruc- 
tions from the Navy Department, its prob- 
able results not having been unforeseen by 
the admiral who had given it as his opinion 
that the co-operation of troops was neces- 
sary to success. Time has confirmed the 
absolute correctness of Du Font's judg- 
ment ; his able successor, with a larger force 
of armored ships, was no more fortunate, 
and Charleston only fell upon the approach 
of Sherman's army. In June the ironclad 
ram "Atlanta" came out of Savannah, and 
Du Pont sent two monitors to intercept her, 
one of which, under Commodore Rogers, 
succeeded in capturing her after a brief 



39 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



engagement. This was the last important 
incident of Admiral Du Font's command, 
from which he was relieved, July 5, 1863. 
During the intervals of more than twenty- 
five years of service at sea, he was almost 
constantly employed on duties of import- 
ance, and was conspicuous in the improve- 
ment and development of the navy. A mem- 
ber of the board which drew up the plan of 
reorganization of the Naval Academy, he 
was one of the officers who afterward re- 
vised and extended the system then adopt- 
ed. He served on the lighthouse board, took 
part in two revisions of the rules and regu- 
lations for the navy and was a very prom- 
inent member of the Naval Retiring Board 
of 1855. He was also the author of vari- 
ous papers on professional subjects; among 
others, one on corporal punishment in the 
navy, and one on the use of floating bat- 
teries for coast defense, which has since 
been republished and is largely quoted from 
by Sir Howard Douglas in his work on 
naval gunnery. In 1833 Admiral Du Pont 
married his cousin, Sophie Madeleine Du 
Pont, who survived him. He died at Phil- 
adelphia, Pennsylvania, June 23, 1863. In 
1882 Congress enacted that the circle at the 
intersection of Massachusetts and Connec- 
ticut avenues in the city of Washington 
should be called "Du Pont Circle," and by 
subsequent legislation provided for the erec- 
tion there of a bronze statue of Rear-Ad- 
miral Du Pont. This lasting monument to 
his fame and memory was completed in 
1884. 



QUINBY, James M., 

Mannfactiirer, Progressive Citizen. 

James Moses Quinby, son of Jothani 
and Lillias (Smith) Quinby. was born m 
Orange, New Jersey, October 3. 1804. died 
in Newark, July 20, 1874. The Quinby 
family are believed to have come into Eng- 
land with the Danes, the first of record 
being in Yorkshire, 1341, by name Hugh 
de Quarmby. The arms of the family are : 



Argent, two bars sable in chief, a Cornish 
chough proper. Crest : A Cornish chough 
armed. 

The American line of descent is through 
Thomas Quinby, who landed in Salem, 
Massachusetts, 1643-46 ; his son Robert, a 
.ship carpenter, of record in Norfolk coun- 
ty, Massachusetts ; his son William, one of 
the founders of Stratford, Connecticut; 
his son John, a proprietor of New Castle, 
Westchester county. New York, and ap- 
pointed a magistrate by Governor Stuyves- 
ant, 1662 ; his son, Josiah ; his son Josiah 
(2), born in 1692; his son Josiah (3), 
settled in Orange, New Jersey, about 1746, 
a large land owner and farmer, at what is 
now Llewellyn Park ; his son Moses ; his 
son Jotham, who resided in a stone house 
on Scotland street, South Orange, tearing 
down the old house and using the stone for 
the basement walls of a new residence. 

James Moses Quinby, after completing 
his years of apprenticeship at the carriage- 
maker's trade with John C. Hedenberg, 
entered the employ of G. & A. K. Carter, a 
noted early Newark carriage building firm, 
and became foreman of their shop, so 
skilled a workman and so capable a man- 
ager was he. In 1834 the Carters failed in 
business, when, to save himself, Mr. Quin- 
by purchased the plant and continued bus- 
iness on his own account, later admitting 
as partners George M. Spencer, his book- 
keeper, and Isaac Young, his foreman, and 
establishing the young firm of J. M. Quin- 
by & Company, now the veteran firm of 
the same name, J. M. Quinby & Company, 
although twentieth century invention has 
largely changed the character of the busi- 
ness. The Quinby carriage became a local 
favorite, then business was extended 
throughout the south, and a local branch 
factory and repository established at 
Montgomer}', Alabama. For forty years 
Mr. Quinby manufactured carriages m 
Newark, his shops and yards located or 
Broad street, between Mechanic and Fa;'- 
streets, where the station and freight sheds 



40 




/ 



iL. 



/"' 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



of the Newark & New York railroad now 
stand. He continued in successful business 
until his death in 1874, and it was largely 
owing to the excellence of the carriages 
manufactured under his supervision that 
Newark-made carriages became famous 
through the United States, their fame also 
extending to Europe. He was interested 
in many Newark business enterprises, one 
being the Newark Savings Institution, of 
which he was the original manager, and 
chairman of the funding committee ; and 
another, the New Jersey Fire Insurance 
Company. He was a devoted churchman, 
a prominent member of Trinity Protestant 
Episcopal Church, and for many years a 
vestryman. Politically he was an old time 
Whig, and if he had a hobby it was his 
love for political work and management. 
He was always present and active at pri- 
mary elections : was invariably a delegate 
to important State and County Conven- 
tions, and was a potent force in making 
nominations. When the death knell of the 
old Whig party sounded, he was not one 
of the mourners, having actively embraced 
the cause of the first candidate of the new 
Republican party in 1856, General John C. 
Fremont. He advocated Republican prin- 
ciples with all the intensity of his strong 
nature, and in so doing sacrificed a for- 
tune, through incurring the bitter enmity 
of his large army of patrons in the south. 
This was not an incident of the war, but a 
proposition put squarely before him to ac- 
cept or reject. In i860 several Southern 
States passed laws requiring Northern men 
doing business in the South to renounce the 
avowed anti-slavery principles of the Re- 
publican party under the penalty of having 
their property within these States forfeit- 
ed. Mr. Quinby refused to comply, and 
this refusal caused him great loss. He was 
one the fathers of the party in Newark 
and in New Jersey, and was one of its hon- 
ored heads for many years. He was one 
of the first State Senators elected by the 
party from Essex county, and one of the 



first in the State, serving in 1860-62. He 
had previously, in 185 1, been elected 
Mayor of Newark by the Whigs, serving 
until 1854, being twice re-elected, the ten- 
ure of the office being one year, and no 
salary being attached to the office. He is 
further remembered as a member of the 
old Volunteer Fire Department, in which 
he took a deep interest. He gave the city 
a good business administration and retired 
from office, honored and respected, even 
by his political foes. He also was a mem- 
ber of the board of water commissioners. 
He was a man of pleasing personality, un- 
assuming and modest, a true soldier of the 
"common good", aiding whenever and 
wherever he could to advance the public 
welfare. 

He married Phoebe Ayres, daughter of 
Richard and Hannah (Hays) Sweazy, a de- 
scendant of Samuel Sweazy, of Southold, 
Long Island, and Roxbury, Massachusetts. 
born March 29, 1689, died May 11, 1759. 
Children of James M. Quinby: i. Annie 
Emeline, deceased, married, in 1865, Nel- 
son Wright, and had children, Albert Wa- 
terman, deceased, Louisa Elise, married 
Arthur H. Mackie, and has children, Eliz- 
abeth Quinby, and Nelson Wright Mackie. 

2. Marie Antoinette, born in Park Place, 
Newark, in 1846. and died there after a 
long illness, March 7, 1909. She was a 
graduate of Saint Mary's School, Burling- 
ton. New Jersey, beautiful in person, with 
a cultured mind, and was a leader in soci- 
ety until her retirement through ill health. 
Intense patriotism was her ruling passion, 
and with all her powers of mind even 
at personal sacrifice, she aided many a 
good cause. She inherited her father's 
wise executive ability, and using her in- 
fluence for good, she accomplished much 
for the betterment of those she aimed to 
help. Not only did she work through 
local channels, but at the time of the 
war with Spain, she exerted herself per- 
sonally, leading with others in outfitting 
the hospital ship "Solace", also spending 



41 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



days and nights at the railroad station 
assisting the returning soldiers who 
through sickness or wounds needed aid. 
She was the organizer of section ii, Army 
and Navy Relief Society, and its only pres- 
ident. In 1892 she was appointed by the 
State authorities to represent New Jersey 
in the interest of women at the World's 
Fair ; was for many years a member of the 
board of managers of the Colonial Dames ; 
was a member of Trent Chapter, Daugh- 
ters of the American Revolution ; was 
founder of the Woman's Branch of the 
New Jersey Historical Society, and presi- 
dent from its organization, devoting a 
great deal of time to its upbuilding. While 
this was her more conspicuous work, she 
did a great of benevolent work privately, 
and was also manager on the boards of 
several charitable organizations. Her life 
was a full and beautiful one, bringing the 
sweet reward of duty well performed, and 
the society of many kindred spirits, who 
knew her intimately and most truly loved 
and revered her. Her influence was most 
blessed, and the inspiration of her life is 
yet felt among those she cheered, encour- 
aged and led in good works during her 
years on earth, all too short, yet wonder- 
fully fruitful and helpful to others. 

3. James Milnor, the only son of James 
M. Quinby to arrive at years of manhood, 
married Mary V. Casey. 4. Ida, married 
Wallace Mcllvaine Scudder. Other chil- 
dren, deceased, are : Eliza Sweazy, mar- 
ried Charles Borcherling; Morris, died 
young: Walden, died young; Florence, died 
young. 



STEPHENS, John Lloyd, 

Noted TraTeler and Author. 

This noted man was a native of New 
Jersey, born in Shrewsbury, November 28, 
1805. He graduated from Columbia Col- 
lege at the age of seventeen, studied law in 
Litchfield, Connecticut, and in New York 
City, and entered upon practice in the lat- 



ter place. He took considerable interest in 
politics, and gained some fame as a Tam- 
many Hall campaign orator. In 1834 he 
went abroad, and was absent for two years, 
traveling through the southern and eastern 
parts of Europe, writing under engagement 
for "Hoffman's Monthly Magazine," his 
papers meeting with such favor that they 
were subsequently expanded into four 
volumes — "Incidents of Travel in Egypt, 
Arabia, Petrae and the Holy Land" (1837), 
and "In Greece, Turkey, Russia and Po- 
land" (1838), and both of which were wide- 
ly circulated in Great Britain as well as in 
the United States. 

In 1839 President Van Buren sent him on 
a semi-confidential commission to Central 
America, which was barren of results, the 
country being amid all the confusion of civil 
war and an overthrow of the existing gov- 
ernment. However, he improved his op- 
portunities, and in company with F. 
Catherwood, an English artist, visited 
the ruins of Cpan, Palenque, Axmal, 
etc., making notes and drawings of the 
remains of former empires of which 
little was then known. These ex- 

plorations resulted in his most important 
work, "Incidents of Travel in Central Amer- 
ica, Chiapas and Yucatan," in two volumes, 
published in 1841. In company with Mr. 
Catlierwood, whose illustrations added much 
to the value of that work, and with more 
ample equipment for archaeological re- 
search, he made another survey of substan- 
tially the same ground, and in 1843 issued 
a two volume work entitled "Incidents of 
Travel in Yucatan." These works were 
most opportune, and he gained and long 
held the distinction of making the best and 
most ample contribution to the American 
knowledge of antiquities in those regions. 

In 1846 Mr. Stephens was a member of 
the New York Constitutional Convention. 
In the following year he was active in the 
organization of the first ocean steam navi- 
gation company, in which he held an of- 
ficial position ; and he was a passenger to 



42 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Bremen in the first vessel of the Hne. The 
gold discoveries in California pointed to the 
necessity for a railroad across the Isthmus 
of Panama; he entered into this project 
w^ith his accustomed enthusiasm, became 
vice-president and then president of the 
projecting company, and after personally 
surveying the route, visited Bogota and 
negotiated a contract with the New Gran- 
ada government, completing all these ar- 
rangements within the year 1849. During 
the following two years he was constantly 
engaged in superintending the work of con- 
struction, but fell victim to the insidious 
malaria of the Panama region, contracting 
the disease which caused his death, in New 
York, October 10, 1852, thus ending all too 
soon a life of phenomenal activity and em- 
inent success. His memory is preserved in 
a monument erected at the highest point 
reached by the Panama railroad. 



ROEBLING, John A., 

Distingnisbed Civil Engineer. 

John A. Roebling was one of the world's 
most famous civil engineers of his day, par- 
ticularly famous as a projector and builder 
of wire bridges, and whose principal monu- 
ments are the great suspension bridges at 
Niagara Falls, and that over the East river, 
connecting the cities of New York and 
Brooklyn. 

Mr. Roebling was a native of Prussia, 
born in the city of Mulhausen, province of 
Thuringia. July 12. 1806. He received a 
thorough academical education, and then 
entered the Royal Polytechnic School in 
Berlin, from which he was graduated as a 
civil engineer. It is a noteworthy fact that 
during his student days he devoted much of 
his attention to the construction of suspen- 
sion bridges, and made his investigations and 
theories the subject of his graduating thesis, 
a paper which attracted much attention, 
and no little adverse criticism on account 
of his venturing upon what was then con- 
sidered an impracticable innovation. In 



compliance with the stern requirements of 
the Prussian government, he served upon 
public works for three years following his 
graduation. 

He came to the United States at the age 
of twenty-five, and located near Pittsburgh, 
Pennsylvania. At this time engineering ef- 
fort was largely devoted to the improve- 
ment of inland transportation by means of 
a system of canals and slack-water naviga- 
tion on the rivers. Mr. Roebling directed his 
attention to this subject, and he began his 
labors on the Beaver river, a tributary of 
the Ohio. He subsequently became inter- 
ested in a project for navigable water con- 
nection between the Ohio river and Lake 
Erie, but the project was abandoned be- 
cause of the competition set in operation 
by the extensive building of railroads then 
begun. For a time Mr. Roebling was en- 
gaged in the service of the State of Penn- 
.sylvania in the location of a feeder for the 
Pennsylvania canal in the upper Allegheny 
river, and he was subsequently occupied 
surveying and locating the route of the 
Pennsylvania Central railway from Harris- 
burg across the mountains to Pittsburgh. 

It was about this time that Mr. Roeb- 
ling began to give his attention particularly 
to that department of engineering which 
soon made his name famous throughout the 
world. As early as 1844-1845 he had suc- 
cessfully constructed an aqueduct across the 
Allegheny river, on the principle of a 
suspension bridge with wire cables, encoun- 
tering from its beginning to its completion 
and successful inauguration the determined 
opposition and contemptuous opprobrium of 
the engineering profession. During his res- 
idence in Pittsburgh he engaged in the man- 
ufacture of iron and steel wire, and there 
developed his wonderful knowledge of the 
nature and capabilities of wire which proved 
so important a factor in enabling him to 
work a revolution in bridge construction. 
His success in the aqueduct project instilled 
confidence, and to him was committed the 
construction of the suspension bridge over 



43 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



the Monongahela river at Pittsburgh, and 
he followed its successful completion with 
the building of four of the suspended aque- 
ducts for the Delaware canal. He then (in 
1851) began the building of the great rail- 
road bridge over the Niagara river, and 
which at the time of its completion at- 
tracted the admiration and astonishment of 
the engineering talent of Europe as well as 
of America, as the longest suspension bridge 
in the world. This he followed equally suc- 
cessfully with the suspension bridge over 
the Allegheny river at Pittsburgh, and that 
over the Ohio river at Cincinnati, the lat- 
ter, with a span of nearly two hundred feet 
greater length than that of the Niagara 
river bridge, marking another great advance 
step in the science of bridge building. The 
excellence of the Ohio river structure im- 
pressed upon engineers throughout the 
country the conviction that the problem of 
bridge construction had been solved and 
had much to do in pointing to Mr. 
Roebling as the chief engineer of the great 
Brooklyn-New York bridge. 

The building of a bridge over the East 
river to connect Brooklyn with New York, 
had been suggested shortly after Mr. Roeb- 
ling had built his first bridge at Pittsburgh, 
but did not pass the stage of discussion in 
the newspapers, and for years the project 
had passed out of sight. Its resurrection 
was in all probability due to Mr. Roebling 
more than to any other. It is a well au- 
thenticated fact that in February, 1853, he 
had an unpleasant experience on a ferry 
boat in the ice-choked East river, which 
caused him to take a personal interest in the 
necessity for a bridge, and he published a 
letter setting forth the feasibility of such 
an undertaking. However, it was difficult 
to make a beginning, and eleven years were 
to pass before a legislative commission was 
appointed fin 1864) to e.xamine into and 
report upon the expediency and practicabil- 
ity of a bridge, and a building company was 
not organized until 1867. On May 23d of 
that year, and one month after the passage 



of the act of incorporation, Mr. Roebling 
was appointed engineer. He completed his 
report of survey, plans and estimates, on 
September ist following. The incorpora- 
tors, after a careful examination, expressed 
entire confidence in Mr. Roebling's judg- 
ment, experience and ability; yet, in view 
of uncertainty and opposition on the part of 
various elements of the public, deemed it 
advisable to call in a board of consulting 
engineers, composed of Horatio G. Allen, 
of New York ; Alfred W. Craven, engineer 
of the Croton Aqueduct ; H. B. Latrobe, 
builder and chief engineer of the Baltimore 
and Ohio railroad, and chief engineer of 
the Reading railroad ; James P. Kirkwood, 
W. J. McAlpine, John J. Serrell, and Col- 
onel Julius W. Adams. This board devoted 
nearly five months to an exhaustive study 
of Mr. Roebling's plans, and at the close 
of their labors reported favorably upon 
them in every respect. Meantime, in order 
to safeguard marine interests under the pro- 
visions of existing Acts of Congress, the 
vVar Department appointed a commission 
of United States Engineers — Major Gen- 
eral Horatio G. Wright, Major General John 
Newton and Major Wright — to ascertain 
whether or not the proposed hr'dge would 
be a menace to navigation. The commis- 
sion carefully viewed the bridges at Pitts- 
burgh, Niagara, Cincinnati, and elsewhere, 
critically examined Mr. Roebling's plans, 
and in its report gave cordial and apprecia- 
tive endorsement and approval, except in a 
single particular — recommending that the 
height of the central span be 135 feet above 
the middle of the river, instead of 130 feet, 
as proposed. No man could have had 
ampler appreciation than came to Mr. Roeb- 
ling from these two boards of exacting 
scientists — the incorporators' committee 
and the government commission. 

It is reasonable to believe, in view of the 
magnitude of his labors and his advanced 
age. that Mr. Roebling expected the Brook- 
lyn bridge to be the crowning achievement 
of his long and useful career. And, in 



44 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



larger way, such it was, though he was not 
destined to witness much more than its be- 
ginning. In the summer in which the work 
on the bridge was begun (1869), while en- 
gaged in determining the location of the 
bridge tower on the Brooklyn side of East 
river, he experienced an accident which re- 
sulted in his death. A ferry boat entering 
its slip dislodged the timbers upon which 
he was standing, in such manner as to catch 
and crush his foot, and sixteen days later 
he died, lockjaw having set in. His un- 
timely loss was severely felt, and the tri- 
butes to his memory were fervent and sin- 
cere, from press and pulpit, from municipal 
and scientific bodies, and from the general 
public. The mechanical bent of his mind 
was such that exactness was his cardinal 
principle, and he was most exacting in all 
professional matters, toward himself as well 
as towards his colaborers. At the same time 
he was of kindly and benevolent disposi- 
tion, and in his family and social relations 
he was most lovable. He held to the loftiest 
ideals of personal and civic life, and during 
the Civil War was one of the staunchest 
upholders of the Union cause. 



ZABRISKIE, Hon. Abraham O., 

Lamryer, Jurist, Iiegislator. 

Hon. Abraham O. Zabriskie, LL.D., was 
born June 10, 1807, in the then village of 
Greenbush, opposite Albany, in the State 
of New York. When he was four years old 
his parents removed to Millstone, New Jer- 
sey. There he received a thorough academ- 
ical education, and subsequently matricu- 
lated at Nassau Hall, Princeton, becoming 
a member of the junior class when only 
sixteen years of age, and graduating two 
years later, with the class of 1825. In the 
same year he commenced the study of law 
in the office of James S. Green, of Prince- 
ton, and was licensed as an attorney in No- 
vember, 1828, being admitted as counsel- 
lor-at-law in 1831. 

Selecting Newark as his field of practice. 



he remained there less than two years, then 
removed to Hackensack, where he remained 
nineteen years. Here he was thrown among 
a quiet agricultural population, where he 
gradually matured his intellectual powers, 
and gathered strength which lasted during 
life. He gained the confidence of the peo- 
ple, and they in turn trusted him as they 
never had trusted anyone before. In 1838 
he was appointed surrogate of Bergen coun- 
ty, and five years later was reappointed, 
holding that position for a period of ten 
years. During his incumbency he not only 
accurately learned how to frame the state- 
ments of executors and administrators, but 
he acquired a full knowledge of the history 
of ecclesiastical law, as pertaining to the 
estates of decedents, which made his coun- 
sels valuable in his after life. During his 
administration of this office he evinced a 
method and accuracy which distinguished 
his life, and the discipline and care about 
minute details that he acquired in this posi- 
tion lasted him ever afterward. There was 
no man in the profession, in litigated causes 
in the Orphans' Court or the Prerogative 
Court, whose services were more valuable 
than his. In 1842 he was appointed Prose- 
cutor of the Pleas for Bergen county, and 
in this position he became master of the 
principles of the criminal law, so that no 
one who was really guilty of its infraction 
ever went unpunished for lack of eflfort on 
his part. He was so especially noted for 
his success in practice of this kind that he 
was frequently called upon at later dates 
both to prosecute and defend in criminal 
causes. During his residence in Bergen 
county he was retained as counsel in many 
cases before the civil courts, and especially 
in those involving questions of titles to 
lands. By this means he became thoroughly 
familiar with the duties of a practical sur- 
veyor, and also with the proprietary history 
of New Jersey, and understood every pat- 
ent in the old "Field Book of Bergen Coun- 
ty," and the common lands assigned to each 
patent. He was regarded by the legal fra- 



45 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ternity as a most formidable adversary in 
all those cases where the title to land was 
involved. Having been a practitioner in the 
Supreme Court for some years, during 
which period he had been noted for his 
thorough research and capacity for patient 
labor, he was named Reporter for that tri- 
bunal, and held that position until 1855. 
He removed from Hackensack in 1849, ^^^ 
selected Jersey City as his future, and, as 
it proved, his final residence. To the peo- 
ple of this county he was no stranger, for 
Hudson county had been until 1840 a por- 
tion of the county of Bergen, of which lat- 
ter Hackensack was the shire town. 

In 1850 he was nominated for the State 
Senate and elected, his term of service in- 
cluding the years 1851, 1852 and 1853. 
While a member of that body he took an 
important part in legislation, and came in 
personal contact with many leading men in 
the State, which proved of great benefit to 
him afterward. He was also one of the 
committee of citizens who framed the vo- 
luminous charter of Jersey City, passed 
March 18, 1851, some of its provisions be- 
ing drafted by him. During his senatorial 
career he was the means of having a good 
and sufficient lien law and also the "wharf 
act" passed. He was the author of the 
"Long Dock Charter," which became a law 
in February, 1856, by which means the com- 
pany bearing that cognomen were enabled 
to provide the necessary means to bring the 
New York & Erie railroad to their new 
terminus in Jersey City. During the same 
year he was elected a director of the New 
Jersey Railroad and Transportation Com- 
pany, and held that position until he was 
made Chancellor, ten years afterward. He 
soon became master of the situation, thor- 
oughly conversant with all the affairs of 
the company, not only as regarded the road 
but the rolling stock, the workshops, and 
the multifarious data of so large a con- 
cern. He was nominated, in 1859, by Gov- 
ernor Newell for the office of Chancellor 
of the State, but as the Senate was polit- 

46 



ically opposed to the Governor, it declined 
to confirm him, and the memorable strug- 
gle commenced which left the State for a 
year without a Chancellor. At the next 
election Charles S. Olden was chosen Gov- 
ernor, but again the Senate was opposed to 
him ; and as he deemed that the mterests of 
the State required that his name should 
not be submitted to the Senate — although he 
was his first choice — another was named for 
the position. He was finally nominated by 
Governor Ward, in 1866, and confirmed by 
the Senate, and became Chancellor, May i, 
1866. He performed the arduous duties of 
Chancellor with a promptness which has 
never been surpassed by any other officer 
who had held that position. During his ad- 
ministration business had greatly increased, 
yet no cause was allowed to linger by rea- 
son of a want of time for his examination 
and decision. And these decisions betoken 
a positive and independent mind, manifest- 
ing great labor and research, and have es- 
tablished for him an enduring fame as a 
jurist. About the period when the great 
monopoly, as it was justly termed, was 
about to cease its arrogant demands, it was 
rumored that it sought an extension of 
twenty years, commencing January i, 1869, 
and much discussion prevailed throughout 
the State. At this juncture a public meet- 
ing was held in Jersey City to oppose the 
renewal of these monopoly privileges, when 
Chancellor Zabriskie made a speech taking 
strong ground against the renewal, and de- 
clared that, rather than have so odious a 
contract perpetuated, the people should, 
with pick-axe in hand, tear up the rails. 
For this expression of public indignation 
he earned the soubriquet of "Captain of the 
Pick-axe Guard." But the independent por- 
tion of the community sustained his earnest 
declaration, and the State was relieved of 
the obnoxious restriction. He repeated his 
speech before a committee of the Legisla- 
ture at Trenton, and the monopoly exten- 
sion scheme was dead. It was the crown- 
ing act of his life to defeat this giant cor- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



poration, and the result is seen already in 
the free railroad law of the State. He was 
in all respects a most successful man. His 
practice was large and lucrative, whereby 
he was enabled to gain an ample com- 
petence. As a lawyer, his learning was 
great and varied, as already detailed ; and 
of his ability as a judge all of his com- 
peers bear full witness. He was regarded 
by business men as eminently sagacious in 
the management of affairs ; and in these 
particulars not only was his advice sought 
for, but he was chosen to fill many posi- 
tions of trust in various institutions. He 
was, as already stated, one of the directors 
of the New Jersey railroad, and held the 
same position in a bank, a life insurance 
and trust company, and in the Jersey City 
Gas Company ; also as a trustee of the old 
Jersey City Savings Bank, besides in sun- 
dry other institutions. When engaged in 
business he gave his whole attention to the 
matter before him ; and when his labors 
were over he sought recreation. During his 
life he was somewhat of a traveller, and 
more than once visited the "old world." 
Here again his methodical spirit asserted 
itself; for not only was the day of his de- 
parture fixed upon, but all the minutiae of 
his travels abroad were predetermined be- 
fore he left his home, and the day of his 
return thither indicated. He also journeyed 
through a greater portion of the Union at 
various times, and he always adhered to 
the plan which he marked out to pursue. 
After his term as Chancellor expired he de- 
sired to visit the Pacific states, and in com- 
pany with a friend set out upon what proved 
to be his last journey on earth. Together 
they passed from the East to the West, over 
the great iron highway that binds the At- 
lantic and Pacific shores of the imperial 
republic in an unbroken link, passing over 
the fertile fields, the boundless prairies, the 
extended plains, the Rocky Mountains, and 
the dreary wastes of the great basin inter- 
vening between this rocky barrier and the 
Sierra Nevada, into the golden State and 



to the shores of the Pacific. After being 
impressed with the glories of the most sub- 
lime natural scenery on the continent they 
retraced their steps, and upon their home- 
ward way he was suddenly stricken by a 
sickness which proved mortal. He had 
been reared in the doctrines of the Re- 
formed Dutch church, and although he had 
never become a communicant member of 
that denomination, he was essentially a 
Christian man. He was a most charitable 
man, and never wearied in doing kind- 
nesses ; and he was also a most conscien- 
tious man, for he took pains to know his 
duty, and when known he faithfully dis- 
charged it. He was a most diligent student, 
not only well read in law, but in history, 
the natural sciences, anatomy, medicine and 
theology ; and what he studied at all was 
thoroughly studied. He died at Truckee, 
California, June 27, 1873, ^^^ the news of 
his decease, transmitted by telegraph, pro- 
duced a most profound impression through- 
out the State, calling forth eulogia upon 
his fame, not only as a lawyer, Senator, 
jurist and Chancellor, but also as a private 
citizen, a neighbor and a friend. 



FORT, George Franklin, 

Governor, BCasonic Writer. 

Governor George Franklin Fort was 
born in Pemberton, Burlington county. 
New Jersey, in May, 1809. After receiv- 
ing an ordinary education in the common 
schools at his home and in that neighbor- 
hood, he entered the Medical Department 
of the University, from which he was gradu- 
ated with the degree of Doctor of Medi- 
cine in 1830, the year in which he attained 
his majority. He entered upon practice, 
and with a degree of success which held 
out before him most promising prospects, 
but he became interested in politics, which, 
with the duties of the public positions to 
which he was called by reason of his polit- 
ical activity, commanded his attention 
throughout the remainder of his life. 



47 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



He served for some time as a represen- 
tative from Monmouth county in the State 
Assembly. He was a useful member of 
the convention of 1844, called to frame a 
new State Constitution, and soon after that 
body had completed its labors, he was elec- 
ted to the State Senate. In 1850 he be- 
came Governor of New Jersey, and served 
until the completion of his term in 1854. 
He was almost immediately appointed to a 
seat in the Court of Errors and Appeals, 
and also served as a member of the Prison 
Reform Commission, and also held other 
offices at various times. While educated 
for the medical profession, by private 
reading he had gained a very fair knowl- 
edge of law, and he was found wanting in 
no position to which he was called. He 
was deeply interested in Masonry, and in 
1875 published in Philadelphia a volume 
entitled "Early History and Antiquities 
of Freemasonry." In 1847 '""^ received 
from the College of New Jersey the hon- 
orary degree of Master of Arts. He died 
in New Egypt, New Jersey, April 22, 1872. 



PEDDIE, Thomas Baldwin, 

Man of Affairs, Statesman, PhilantKropist. 

Thomas Baldwin Peddie was one of the 
most progressive and public spirited citi- 
zens of Newark, New Jersey, and may 
justly be credited with a large share of 
those activities which have, within recent 
years, placed the city in the forefront of 
American industrial centers. Himself a 
typical example of the keen and large 
minded business man who carries the 
weight of affairs of the utmost importance, 
he was ever ready to undertake another 
burden, if by so doing he might by deed or 
example benefit or further any movement 
pointing towards the betterment of indus- 
trial or municipal conditions. 

Thomas Baldwin Peddie was born in 
Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1808, and there re- 
ceived a substantial and practical educa- 
tion. To this he added largely by means 



of home study and the use of his keen 
powers of observation, which made of him 
a man of fine executive ability and an ex- 
cellent judge of human nature. An earnest 
reader from his earliest years, he was 
chiefly attracted by books of travel, and 
these inspired him with the idea of visiting 
America, as offering finer prospect for ad- 
vancement than the Old World had to 
offer. When he came to the United States 
in 1833 he had no fixed plans as to his fu- 
ture line of conduct. Had he been dis- 
appointed in conditions here, at that time, 
this country would probably never have 
had the benefit of his wise counsel and en- 
terprise during the many years he remain- 
ed a resident here. Upon his arrival he 
went at once to the City of Newark, New- 
Jersey, as a fitting place for the carrying 
out of the plans he had already partly 
formulated. He became immediately 
identified with the manufacturing interests 
of the city, in that he visited factories of 
various kinds, and finally applied for a 
position in the manufacturing establish- 
ment of Smith & Wright, manufacturers 
of saddlery. Himself was his best and 
only recommendation, and this sufficed to 
obtain the position he was seeking, and 
two years were spent in this factory during 
which Mr. Peddie acquired a thorough 
mastery of the business customs in vogue 
here. He then established himself inde- 
pendently in the manufacture of leather 
trunks and carpet bags, commencing on a 
small scale, and during the ten years which 
followed his efforts were attended with 
such an amount of success that at last he 
found himself unable to take care of his 
growing responsibilities alone. According- 
ly, in 1846, he admitted to a partnership 
John Morrison, and this connection was 
uninterrupted until the death of Mr. Mor- 
rison in 1861. For a time Mr. Peddie 
again attempted to conduct his extensive 
interests alone, but as this was entirely out 
of the question, because of the large re- 
sponsibilities involved, he accepted as a 



48 




A 



u- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



partner George B. Jenkinson, one of his 
assistants, who had for many years become 
thoroughly famihar with every detail of all 
the departments of the concern. The firm 
name was changed to read T. B. Peddie & 
Company, and was thus continued until the 
death of Mr. Peddie, February i6, 1889. 
Many other business enterprises claimed 
a share of the time and attention of Mr. 
Peddie. He was a member, and at one 
time president, of the Newark Board of 
Trade ; director in the Essex County 
National Bank ; president of the Securi- 
ty Savings Bank. 

The cause of education ever found in 
him a most ardent advocate and liberal 
supporter. He was one of the most inter- 
ested workers in behalf of erecting the 
academy at Hightstown, New Jersey, 
which is now called Peddie Institute, as a 
mark of respect and appreciation for the 
services he rendered. The Newark Tech- 
nical School is another institution which 
largely owes its inception to the personal 
efforts of Mr. Peddie while he was a mem- 
ber of the Newark Board of Trade. For 
many years he was a trustee of the Newark 
City Home, and he was a generous contrib- 
utor to all worthy enterprises of a charita- 
ble nature. One of the noblest structures 
in Newark, but one which Mr. Peddie did 
not live to see finished, is what is now called 
the Peddie Memorial. It was presented by 
Mr. Peddie to the congregation with which 
he had associated himself upon his first 
coming to the city, and stands upon the 
main street, almost facing one of the parks. 
It seats three thousand worshippers, and is 
constructed in the Byzantine style of archi- 
tecture. The name it now holds was sug- 
gested after the death of Mr. Peddie. His 
ideas and plans with regard to this build- 
ing, as far as he had expressed them, were 
faithfully carried out by his widow and, in 
compliance with another wish expressed by 
him, she donated to the church valuable 
property in New York City and elsewhere. 
The fine moral character of Mr. Peddie 



made him the choice of his fellow citizens 
for positions of public trust and responsi- 
bility, and he served in the State Legis- 
lature in 1863-64, where his counsel was 
of inestimable value during the troubled 
times of the Civil War; from 1866-69, he 
was of great benefit to the city as its mayor; 
and in 1876, as a representative of the 
Sixth Congressional District of New Jer- 
sey, he was a member of the Forty-fifth 
Congress, declining renomination upon the 
expiration of his term. His social mem- 
bership was with the L^nion League Club of 
New York, the Essex Club of Newark and 
the Essex County Country Club of Orange. 
Mr. Peddie married in Newark, in 1858, 
Sarah Annette Ogden, who died in 1893. 
The charities of Mr. Peddie, were numer- 
ous, but generally pursued in so unosten- 
tatious a manner that the world will never 
know their full extent. They were char- 
acteristic of the kindness of heart which 
was one of his strong features. Few men 
ever brought to public duties a greater 
amount of conscientious principle. Every 
public act was governed by that law of jus- 
tice and of right which would stand the 
test of closest scrutiny. He preferred the 
true to the false, the substantial to the pre- 
tentious, and his life was one which may 
be studied by all who seek distinction, re- 
spect and success. 



MECUM, James Wright 

Prominent in Commnnity Affairs. 

In the home in Salem which he built and 
to which James Wright Mecum brought 
his bride in 1840, and where ail his chil- 
nren were born, are many valuable articles 
closely associated with the lives of mem- 
bers of the family from which are descend- 
ed the present owners, children of James 
Wright Mecum. There is the sword carried 
by Dr. Samuel Dick while a surgeon in the 
army besieging Quebec under the immortal 
Wolfe ; another carried by Major William 
Mecum during the Revolutionary War ; and 



II-4 



49 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



a third worn by Captain Josiah Harrison. 
Major Mecum's sword is doubly valuable 
as an heirloom, from the fact that it has a 
silver hilt, made from his own shoe and 
knee buckles. Well preserved old furni- 
ture, hallowed by hands long since stilled, 
portraits of honored forbears, tapestries, 
and pictures, all testify to the veneration 
with which these mute evidences of valor, 
gentle blood, and domestic happiness are 
held by the children of James Wright Me- 
cum, who own not only the original home 
of their parents but also the Mecum lands 
in Lower Penn's Neck township, where 
part of their honored father's life was 
passed. 

The Mecum family of Salem county 
spring from Edward Mecum, and through 
intermarriages are connected with the Sin- 
nickson, Dick, and other leading early fam- 
ilies of West Jersey, also with the Harrison 
family of Newark and Orange, New Jer- 
sey, who sprang from Richard Harrison, of 
Connecticut, 1640, and Sergeant Richard 
Harrison, who settled in Newark, New Jer- 
sey, in 1667. The Mecums came in the lat- 
ter part of the seventeenth century and the 
Dick family between 1730 and 40. Each 
furnished eminent sons that proved their 
worth and value as citizens of the common- 
wealth that gave them homes and opportu- 
nity. 

Edward Mecum, the founder, great- 
grandfather of James Wright Mecum, first 
appears on Salem county records in 1706, 
as a juror, but in 1701 he purchased land 
of Thomas Penn. He was the father of 
William Mecum, who rebuilt a house in 
1737 on his farm of two hundred acres in 
Penn's Neck township, that is still stand- 
ing. This William Mecum married, in 1728, 
Margaret Vickery, the mother of Major 
William Mecum, of Revolutionary fame. 

Major Wiliam Mecum, of the third gen- 
eration in Salem county, owned lands in 
Lower Penn's Neck township, was a pros- 
perous agriculturist, prominent in civil life, 
and a soldier of the Revolution. He was 



a justice of the peace from 1774 until 1776; 
judge of Salem county courts from 1777 
until 1782, also in 1786 and 87. He served 
as major of the First Battalion Salem 
County Militia, and saw service in the field 
both in New Jersey and New York, lead- 
ing his troops in the latter State as part 
of the "Flying Brigade" commanded by 
General Newcomb. The sword with the 
silver hilt that was part of his equipment is 
preserved by his great-great-grandchildren 
in their Salem home previously referred to. 
Major Mecum married (first) Dorcas Gib- 
son, whose only child died in infancy. He 
married (second) Eleanor Sinnickson, sec- 
ond daughter of Andrew and Sarah Sin- 
nickson, a descendant of Andrew Sinnick- 
son (Anders Senecason), who came to 
America about 1627. (See Sinnickson me- 
morials in this work). 

Andrew, son of Major William Mecum 
and his second wife, Eleanor Sinnickson, 
was born at the homestead in Lower Penn's 
Neck township, February 3, 1780, and died 
October 4, 1814. He was one of the lead- 
ing agriculturists of the county, accumu- 
lated considerable wealth, and was the own- 
er of several farms. He married Ann, 
daughter of James Wright. 

James Wright, only son of Andrew and 
Ann (Wright) Mecum, was born on the 
homestead in Lower Penn's Neck township, 
yet owned by his children, December 9, 
1809, died in Salem, November 19, 1878. 
He was educated in private schools and in 
Salem Academy, devoting several years of 
his youthful manhood to the duties of as- 
sistant to the county clerk of Salem. He was 
the owner of several valuable farms in Low- 
er Penn's Neck township, and to the man- 
agement of these the greater part of his life 
was devoted. In addition to the manage- 
ment of his own estates he was for many 
years treasurer of the Farmer's Mutual Fire 
Insurance Company, a trustee of Rutgers 
College and of St. Mary's Hall, of Burling- 
ton. He was a man of influence in his com- 
munity, using his wealth justly and giving 



50 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



hearty support to the church with which 
his family had been connected for many 
generations, the Episcopal. He was a com- 
municant of St. John's Church, of Salem, 
served as vestryman and warden, was lay 
reader for many years, and also superinten- 
dent of the Sunday school. He had no 
taste for public official life, yet was keenly 
alive to his responsibilities as a citizen. He 
was a Whig in early life, later becoming a 
Democrat, and affiliating with that party 
until his death. He was a man highly re- 
spected, proud of the achievements of his 
ancestors, jealous of the fame of the Me- 
cum name, and transmitted it to his chil- 
dren untarnished by act of his. 

Mr. Mecum married. May 24, 1841, Lydia 
Ann Harrison, of Salem, New Jersey, daugh- 
ter of Josiah and Isabella S. (Dick) Harri- 
son, the ceremony being performed in St. 
John's by Rev. E. G. Prescott, the rector. 
Mr. Mecum made his bride mistress of the 
mansion he had caused to be erected at No. 
33 Market street, Salem, and there their 
years of married happiness were passed and 
there all of their children were born. Chil- 
dren : Isabel'a, died aged three years ; 
George, died at the age of forty-four years, 
unmarried ; Ellen, of extended mention else- 
where ; James Harrison, died aged fourteen 
years ; Maria Harrison, now residing in Sa- 
lem, in the home where she was born; 
Charles, a graduate of the law department 
of the University of Pennsylvania, class of 
1881, now a practicing lawyer of Salem. He 
married. May 29, 1890, Margaret Howard, 
daughter of J. Howard and Elizabeth ("For- 
man) Sinnickson, and has children: Fran- 
ces Margaret ; Charles Harrison, a gradu- 
ate of the United States Naval Academy, 
class of 1914; and James Howard, a stu- 
dent in the University of Pennsylvania, 
class of 1917. 

(The Harrison Line). 

Lydia Ann Harrison Mecum was a 
descendant of Richard Harrison, of New 
Haven, Connecticut, who came from West 



Kirby, England, in 1640, was of Branford, 
Connecticut, in 1653, and New Haven in 
1664. 

Richard {2), son of Richard Harrison, 
the founder, settled in Newark, New Jer- 
sey, about 1667, and there died prior to 
1691. He was known as "Sergeant Rich- 
ard." 

Joseph, son of Sergeant Richard Harri- 
son, was born in 1649, died in 1742. He 
married Dorcas, daughter of Sergeant John 
Ward, of Newark; she died in 1738. 

Stephen, son of Jose(?h and Dorcas 
(Ward) Harrison, was born in Newark 
in 1698, died in 1786, married, and left is- 
sue. 

Jotham, born in 1751, died in 1806, a resi- 
dent of Orange, New Jersey, his farm now 
forming the central part of that beautiful 
suburban city. He married Lydia James, 
born in 1750, died in 1832. 

Captain Josiah Harrison, son of Jotham 
and Lydia (James) Harrison, was bom in 
Orange, September 22, 1776, died Febru- 
ary 25, 1865, in Salem. He was a gradu- 
ate of Princeton, class of 1790, a lawyer, 
a captain of Salem County Militia in the 
War of 1812. He practiced law in both 
Camden and Salem, also figuring prom- 
inently in public affairs during the early 
years of the Republic. It was his pride 
that he witnessed the inauguration of George 
Washington as the first President of the 
United States in New York City in 1789, and 
his greater pride that he lived long enough 
to be assured that the L^nion of States was 
of sufficient strength to resist the first 
armed attempt to destroy it. He possessed 
a rare collection of valuable books, some 
of them yet preserved among the many 
treasures of the Mecum home in Salem. 
As a lay reader he gathered a small congre- 
gation, that was the nucleus of the later St. 
Paul's Church, the largest Episcopal church 
in Camden. He was for many years a 
lay reader and warden of St. John's, Sa- 
lem, and was deeply interested in parish 
work. He married, in 1804, Isabella Stuart 



51 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Dick, who died February i6, 1817. Their 
daughter, Lydia Ann, married James Wright 
Mecum. 

(The Dick Line). 

Isabella Stuart Dick was a daughter of 
Dr. Samuel Dick, and granddaughter of 
Rev. John Dick, son of a minister of the 
Presbyterian church in the North of Ire- 
land. Rev. John Dick married Isabella 
Stuart, of Scotch birth, a lady of culture 
and education. They came to America be- 
tween the years 1735 and 1740, as in the 
latter year they were living at Nottingham, 
Prince George county, Maryland. On No- 
vember 12, 1746, he was ordained pastor 
of the Presbyterian church at New Castle 
and Drawyers, Delaware, serving that and 
neighboring churches until his death in 
1748. 

Dr. Samuel Dick was born at Notting- 
ham, Prince George county, Maryland, No- 
vember 14, 1740, died at Salem, November 
16, 1812, after a most distinguished pub- 
lic career as surgeon, physician, scholar, 
politician, and patriot. He was educated un- 
der the highest class of private tutors, spoke 
and wrote five languages besides his own, 
Hebrew, Greek, French, Spanish, and Lat- 
in, and was educated for the medical pro- 
fession in a Scotch university. He served 
as assistant surgeon with the colonial army 
in Canada in 1760, was with Wolfe at Que- 
bec, and in 1770 came with his widowed 
mother to Salem county, New Jersey, and 
there established in medical practice. His 
home, built in 1730, was a brick dwelling 
on the corner of Walnut and Fenwick 
streets, which he purchased and there end- 
ed his days. In 1776 he was elected a mem- 
ber of the Provincial Congress of New Jer- 
sey, and was one of a committee of five ap- 
pointed to prepare a draft of a constitution 
for the State. He was commissioned col- 
onel and rendered efficient service during 
the Revolution. In 1780 he was appointed 
surrogate of Salem county by Governor Liv- 
ingston, an office he held for twenty-two 



years. In 1783 he was elected to Congress, 
and was a member of the Congress that 
ratified the treaty of peace with England, 
January 14, 1784, that gave to the world a 
new nation — the United States of America. 
He served as Congressman in 1783-84-85, 
and was closely associated, in the construc- 
tive legislation of those sessions, with Jef- 
ferson and the leading men of his day. He 
died in Salem, November 16, 1812, and is 
buried in St. John's Cemetery, his grave- 
stone testifying that "he spake evil of none." 
His virtues were many, his deeds worthy. 
Dr. Dick married, in 1773, Sarah, young- 
est daughter of Judge Andrew and Sarah 
Sinnickson. She died May 3, 1827, aged 
seventy-one years, the mother of five chil- 
dren: Sarah, Isabella Stuart, Anna, Samuel 
Stuart, and Maria. Isabella S. married Cap- 
tain Josiah Harrison, in 1804. Their daugh- 
ter, Lydia Ann, in 1841 married James 
Wright Mecum, of previous mention. The 
descendants of Isabella S. Dick are the only 
living descendants of Dr. Samuel Dick, 
with one exception. 



MECUM, Miss Ellen, 

Leader in Benevolent and Patriotic Work. 

Descended from a long line of honorable 
ancestors, many of them renowned in 
Church and State, Miss Mecum inherited 
from her sires the virtues that made them 
conspicuous in public life, while from the 
gentle ladies of her ancient families came 
that tender side of her nature that endeared 
her to all and compelled admiration while 
winning universal love and respect. A child 
of patriotic sires, she gloried in their 
achievements and reverenced the relics left 
behind as evidence of their prowess. This 
appreciation of their patriotism and that of 
others of their day led her into the patriotic 
order. Daughters of the American Revolu- 
tion, a society in which she won the high- 
est State and national honors. She was a 
true daughter of the Church, for years a 
pillar of strength to St. John's, of Salem, 



52 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



her sphere the musical services, of which 
for years she was in charge. She was 
charming in her personality and a social 
favorite, combining in her character the de- 
voted earnestness of the striver after high 
ideals and the charming womanhood that 
brought her into general favor far beyond 
the confines of her own city and State. A 
truly consecrated woman, 

"The world is richer that she lived 
And Heaven that she died." 

Ellen Mecum, born July i, 1846, died 
January i, 1912, second daughter of James 
Wright and Lydia Ann (Harrison) Me- 
cum. She was well educated, especially in 
music, talent for which she possessed to 
an unusual degree, her voice a beautiful, 
sweet, and true soprano. This led her 
early to the church, and from the age of 
ten years, when she first entered the choir 
of St. John's, of Salem, she was a devoted 
member of that church, consecrating her 
musical talents to that best of all purposes. 
Christian service. She trained, taught, and 
managed the choir, and for many years was 
in complete charge of the music at St. 
John's, freely giving to that work all her 
energy, enthusiasm, and zeal. 

Second only to her love for the church 
and her compassionate and helpful interest 
in God's unfortunates, the work of the wo- 
men's patriotic societies most appealed to 
Miss Mecum. Through her patriotic for- 
bears she gained admission to the Daugh- 
ters of the American Revolution, joining 
Nassau Chapter, of Camden. Her ability 
and interest resulted in her election as re- 
gent of that Chapter, but later, after organ- 
izing Oak Tree Chapter (named in honor 
of Salem's mighty oak, now over three cen- 
turies old) she withdrew from Nassau to 
become the first regent of Oak Tree Chap- 
ter. Devoted to the order, her fame spread 
abroad, and soon the State order availed 
itself of her wise executive ability by elect- 
ing her vice-regent of the New Jersey 
Daughters of the American Revolution. 



Soon afterward she was elected State re- 
gent, serving two years. She had now be- 
come a national character in the order, 
served on important committees, was chos- 
en vice-president general for New Jersey 
of the National Society, and at the time of 
her death was holding that high office, was 
a member of the executive board of gover- 
nors, and was chairman of the national com- 
mittee on patriotic education. She was 
deeply interested in the work of the last 
named committee of the Daughters of the 
American Revolution, and through her ef- 
forts much was accomplished in the matter 
of patriotic teachings in the public schools. 
Broad in her sympathy, energetic and ca- 
pable, loyal and true, she achieved results 
valuable to State and National Societies of 
the American Revolution, none excelling 
her in devotion or usefulness. She gave one- 
fourth of her life to the service of that or- 
ganization, loved it with all the intensity of 
her strong nature, and found in it pleasure 
and happiness, her sisters lovingly bestow- 
ing upon her many honors. She was also 
a Colonial Dame, member of the board of 
governors of the New Jersey Society, Co- 
lonial Dames of America, and but shortly 
priot to her death had been elected histo- 
rian. She was president of the Women's 
Club of Salem, one of the oldest women's 
clubs in the country. The first panel dedi- 
cated in the "Roof of the Republic," in the 
Memorial Chapel of Valley Forge, present- 
ed by Mrs. Erastus Gaylord Putnam, con- 
tains a bronze tablet commemorative of Miss 
Ellen Mecum, whose memory was further 
honored in the dedicatory address. 

Her sympathies were ever with the un- 
fortunate and afflicted. She constantly plan- 
ned for their relief and included in her plans 
not only the betterment of individuals but 
the improvement of civic conditions. The 
blind particularly appealed to her warm and 
loving nature, and in addition to her work 
in their behalf, in which she was foremost, 
she used her influence to the last in secur- 
ing legislation which has immeasurably bet- 



53 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



tered the conditions under which the blind 
must live and has reduced the cause of 
blindness in young children. All forms of 
cf charitable work had her approval and 
support, and no subject affecting the pub- 
lic good was without interest to this no- 
ble, public-spirited woman, who stood in her 
community for all that was purest and best, 
who, never weary in well doing, consecrated 
all of her talents to the glory of God and 
the good of her fellows. 

"She is not dead, this friend, not dead, 

But in the paths we mortals tread 

Got some few trifling steps ahead 

And nearer to the end. 

So that you, too, once past this bend 

Shall meet again, as face to face, this friend. 

You fancy dead." 



RUTHERFURD, John, 

Historian, Iieader in Community Affairs. 

Hon. John Rutherfurd was born July 21, 
1810, at the home of his maternal grand- 
father, Lewis Morris, of Westchester coun- 
ty. New York. His parents were Robert 
Walter and Sabina (Morris) Rutherfurd. 
His paternal grandfather, after whom he 
was named, was a country gentleman and 
large landholder, living on his estate at 
Edgerton, on the Passaic river, known as 
Rutherfurd Park ; he was a public-spirited 
citizen, and served in the Congress of 1793; 
he married a sister of Lewis Morris. The 
paternal great-grandfather was a colonel 
in the British army, prominent in the French 
war; he married a sister of Lord Stirling. 

John Rutherfurd became one of his 
grandfather's family when he was about 
two and a half years old. As a child he 
gave evidence of precocity beyond his years, 
as shown by his diary. At the age of sev- 
en he was reading Rollins' "Belles Lettres," 
Goldsmith's "Abridged History of Greece," 
and began Goldsmith's "History of Rome." 
When nine years old he was sent 
to the Newark Academy, under Adam 
Smith, a noted teacher of that 
day, but as the academy was at 



too great a distance from his grandfather's 
home, he was boarded by his teacher. Leav- 
ing this school, he was fitted for college at 
the famous institute of Dr. Brownlee, at 
Basking Ridge. He was intended for Prince- 
ton College, his father's alma mater, but 
on visiting that institution he conceived a 
dislike for what he deemed undignified con- 
duct on the part of the students with whom 
he would need associate. Entirely upon 
his own motion, without consultation with 
any one, he went to New Brunswick, and 
after a two hours examination was admit- 
ted to the sophomore class of Rutgers Col- 
lege, being then in his fifteenth year. He 
graduated at the age of eighteen, and took 
up law studies with Elias Van Arsdale, in 
Newark, and was admitted to the bar in 
due time. He practiced his profession but 
two years, when he abandoned it in order to 
assist his grandfather in the care of hii 
estate. After the death of his grandparents, 
he married, and took up his residence at the 
palatial home of his aunts, Mary and Louisa 
Rutherfurd, some two miles from Newark, 
where he lived a life of gentlemanlike com- 
fort, interested in his books, and at the 
same time taking a leading part in further- 
ing the enterprises set on foot for the de- 
velopment of the resources and interests 
of the surrounding region. Li these labors 
he displayed executive ability of a high 
order, and it was said of him that "his 
great self-control, his tact in management 
of all embarrassing questions, his whole- 
souled generosity, and his slowness to sus- 
pect anything wrong in the motives of oth- 
ers, caused him to be almost worshipped 
among his tenantry, and there was probab- 
ly no one in the entire county of Essex 
who had equal popularity with him." 
Transportation questions had a remark- 
ably strong hold upon him. Conceiving 
the desirability of connecting the Delaware 
and Hudson rivers, he originated the War- 
wick railroad, having its beginning at 
Chester, on the Erie road, and continuing 
to the State line, a distance of ten miles; 



54 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



was largely interested in the construction 
of the Pequest Valley railroad ; was a di- 
rector and able worker in the Midland rail- 
road ; and as president of the Tuckerton 
railroad, in Ocean county, was largely in- 
strumental in converting large areas of the 
"pine barrens" into cultivated lands. He 
was also a director in the Sussex railroad, 
and president of the New Jersey Coal 
Company, in which capacity he was the 
prime factor in coal development. 

Aside from the beforementioned inter- 
ests, he was deeply interested in others out- 
side commercial lines but of great public 
importance. He was an hereditary member 
of the Council of Proprietors for the East- 
ern Division of New Jersey, and for many 
years its president ; "his influence in that 
body vi'as so great, and the confidence in 
his inflexible uprightness and sound judg- 
ment so general, that he never failed, by 
expressing his opinion, to control the ac- 
tion of the board, no matter how divided 
the sentiment might be."' He was a direc- 
tor in the New Jersey State Agricultural 
Society, and was a leader in the advance- 
ment of its usefulness to the State at large. 
He was a prominent member of the New 
Jersey Historical Society, serving as vice- 
president and president. His devotion to 
this institution was constant and fervent, 
and he brought to its service that versatil- 
ity of talents that made him invaluable. 
Many of the priceless manuscripts, docu- 
ments and literary curiosities in its library 
are the gifts of Mr. Rutherfurd and his 
family. 

He died November 21, 1872, aged sixty- 
two years, after a long illness beginning 
with malarious fever. The funeral took 
place from Trinity Church, Newark, and 
the burial in Christ Church graveyard, 
Belleville, where are also interred the re- 
mains of his parents, aunts, and one of his 
children. He had grown up in that church, 
and was for many years one of its vestry- 
men, and frequently represented the parish 



in the diocesan conventions of the Protest- 
ant Episcopal Church of New Jersey. 



BOGGS, Charles Stuart, 

Distinguished Naval Officer. 

Rear Admiral Charles Stuart Boggs was 
born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Jan 
uary 28, 181 1. His mother was a sister of 
the heroic Captain James Lawrence, whose 
utterance, "Don't give up the ship," is as 
famous as Nelson's "England expects every 
man will do his duty." It is said of Boggs 
that the impression made upon his mother 
and transmitted to him, concerning the 
brilliant career of Captain Lawrence, had 
much influence in turning his mind to naval 
affairs. 

When quite young he was sent to Cap- 
tain Partridge's celebrated military school 
at Middletown, Connecticut, but his school 
days were few. In 1826, at the early age 
of fifteen, he was appointed from New Jer- 
sey to a midshipman's berth in the sloop- 
of-war "Warren," of the Mediterranean 
Squadron, then engaged in protecting 
American commerce against the Greek pi- 
rates who swarmed in those waters. Young 
Boggs was on this duty three years, a part 
of the time in the ship-of-the-line "Dela- 
ware." For two years following he was 
on duty in the schooner "Porpoise," in the 
West Indies. In 1832, having just come 
of age, he was appointed passed-midship- 
man, and with that rank served one year 
in the sloop "Falmouth," in the West In- 
dies, and three years in a receiving ship in 
New York. In 1836 he was made master 
of the ship-of-line "North Carolina," 
which had been ordered on service in the 
Pacific, but on arriving at Callao he re- 
ceived appointment as acting lieutenant, 
and was ordered to the schooner "Enter- 
prise," as master, in which capacity he saw 
much active service. In 1837 he was made 
full lieutenant, and in 1839 returned home 
in the "North Carolina," which was now 



55 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



county, New Jersey, March 12, 1814. His 
classical education was conducted under 
private tutors and in an unusually thorough 
manner. When he finally turned from his 
general studies to those of his chosen pro- 
fession, the law, he placed himself under 
the tutelage of the Hon. Joseph F. Ran- 
dolph, Justice of the Supreme Court of 
New Jersey, whose qualifications as precep- 
tor, together with his pupil's unusual apti- 
tude, so prospered matters that Mr. Ten 
Eyck was admitted to the bar in 1835, hav- 
ing just attained his majority. In 1838 he 
was made counsellor. He began practice 
in Burlington, where he formed a partner- 
ship with the Hon. Garret D. Wall, then 
United States Senator from New Jersey. 
With such an auspicious association and 
his own gifts, natural and acquired, his suc- 
cess was assured, and he soon won for him- 
self a leading place at the bar. In 1839 he 
was appointed Prosecutor of the Pleas for 
Burlingfton county, and he occupied this 
position for ten years, performing the ard- 
uous duties of that office in a most credit- 
able manner. It was in 1844 that a conven- 
tion was assembled for the purpose of 
drafting a new constitution for New Jer- 
sey. Mr. Ten Eyck was next to the young- 
est of the members of that distinguished 
body, and his service was so conspicuous- 
ly useful as to attract the favorable atten- 
tion of his confreres, with the result of still 
further advancing his political fortunes. In 
1859 he was elected to the United States 
Senate, and in that body he came at once to 
positions of usefulness and distinction, and 
was a well regarded member of the com- 
mittees on commerce, patents, and the ju- 
diciary. 1873 he was once more called to 
take part in the revision of the State con- 
stitution, and acted as chairman of the 
commission appointed to prepare a com- 
prehensive series of amendments, and which 
in due time were ratified by the people. 
Mr. Ten Eyck was a Whig, until the dis- 
ruption of that party, when he became a 
Republican, and during the Civil War per- 

57 



iod he gave hearty and unflagging support 
to the cause of the Union. He died at 
Mount Holly, New Jersey. August 24, 
1879. 



PARKER, Joel, 

Tiavryer, Jurist, Goveraor, 

Hon. Joel Parker, Grovernor for two 
terms, a Supreme Court Justice for a like 
period, and then declining a third nomi- 
nation for the gubernatorial office, was born 
near Freehold, New Jersey, November 24, 
1816, son of Charles and Sarah (Coward) 
Parker ; grandson of Thomas and Sarah 
(Stout) Parker and of Captain Joseph 
Coward, of the Continental Army ; and a 
descendant of Joseph Parker, who settled 
in Monmouth, New Jersey, about 1668. 
His father settled in Trenton in 1821. and 
was a member of the State Assembly, and 
later State Treasurer. 

Joel Parker was prepared for college at 
Trenton Academy and the Lawrenceville 
High School, and then entered the College 
of New Jersey, from which he was gradu- 
ated A. B. in 1839, receiving the master's 
degree in 1842. He was fortunate in hav- 
ing for law preceptor Hon. Henry W. 
Green, Chief Justice of New Jersey. He 
was admitted to the bar in 1842, and en- 
gaged in practice in Freehold, and in which 
he was actively employed until 1880, bar- 
ring such interruptions as were incident 
to his political and official life. A Demo- 
crat in politics, he soon became interested 
in political affairs, and in 1840 made an ac- 
tive canvass for Van Buren for the presi- 
dency, and four years later for Polk and 
Dallas. He made a pleasing popular im- 
pression as a speaker and leader, and in 
1847 was elected to the State Assembly, 
in which he remained for four years. From 
1852 to 1857 he served as Prosecutor of the 
Pleas. He was a presidential elector in the 
campaign of i860, and cast his vote for 
Stephen A. Douglas for the presidency. He 
had been a brigadier-general of militia 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



since 1857, and when hostilities began be- 
tween the North and the South, he was 
advanced to the rank of major-general. At 
the outset, he believed the war to be avert- 
able, and held aloof for a time. But, as 
soon as the conflict actually began, with the 
firing on Fort Sumter, he warmly espoused 
the Union cause and held to it resolutely 
until the end. His service as Governor was 
from 1863 to 1866. He was constantly 
active in support of the administration of 
President Lincoln ; he not only provided 
New Jersey's full quota of troops at the 
various times they were called for, but on 
the invasion of Pennsylvania he supplied 
Governor Curtin, of that State, with sever- 
al regiments of emergency volunteers. At 
the same time he directed the financial af- 
fairs of the State with such sagacity that 
during his entire administration not a single 
bond was marketed at less than its face 
value, and at the close of the war, in the 
final summing up, instead of having a de- 
ficiency to provide for, as was so common 
with sister States, there was a surplus of 
$200,000 in the treasury of New Jersey. 

His admirable conduct of State af- 
fairs during his governorship, with his tal- 
ents for leadership and as an orator, gave 
him national prominence. In 1868, in the 
Democratic National Convention, he re- 
ceived the undivided vote of the New Jer- 
sey delegation for the presidential nomi- 
nation, and similar action was taken in the 
conventions of 1876 and 1884. In 1872 he 
was the candidate of the National Labor 
Reform Convention for Vice-President, on 
the same ticket with Hon. David Davis for 
President, but declined. In the same year 
he was again elected Governor, and while 
his incumbency of the office was unmarked 
by any such stern requirements as attended 
his first administration, his conduct was 
most meritorious. On retiring from the 
executive office, he was made Attorney- 
General of the State. In 1876 he was a 
presidential elector on the Tilden and 
Hendricks ticket. In 1880 he was made a 



Justice of the Supreme Court, and was re- 
elected, extending his judicial service to a 
period of eight years, meantime (in 1883) 
declining a third nomination for the gov- 
ernorship. 

To Governor Parker is due the distinc- 
tion of setting afoot the movement result- 
ing in the erection of the Battle Monument 
on the Monmouth battlefield, and of being 
among the foremost in carrying the work 
on to a successful consummation. The pro- 
ject had its inception in an oration which 
he delivered on the ground, in Freehold, 
on June 28, 1877, the ninety-ninth anni- 
versary of the battle. Committees to so- 
licit funds were appointed on the spot. 
State and National aid was procured, and 
the completed monument was unveiled No- 
vember 13th, 1884, on which occasion ex- 
Governor Parker delivered an admirable 
oration, which, as a contribution to history, 
is valuable for all time. He received the 
honorary degree of LL.D. from Rutgers 
College in 1872; and he was an honorary 
member of the New Jersey branch of the 
Society of the Cincinnati. He married, in 
1843, Maria M., daughter of Samuel M. 
Gummere, of Trenton, New Jersey. He 
died in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, January 
2, 1888. 



WHELPLEY, Edward W., 

Brilliant Laipyer, Jurist. 

It has been said of Mr. Whelpley that 
he was distinguished at the bar as a forci- 
ble and convincing orator in public assem- 
blies and in trials before juries, and as an 
able advocate, with great force of intellect 
and strong grasp of legal principles in ar- 
guments : that judges listened to him with 
the profoundest respect, and never failed to 
award him their greatest admiration, even 
if they did not agree with him. 

He was born in 1818, in Morristown, 
New Jersey. He was the son of Dr. Wil- 
liam A. Whelpley, a practicing physician 
in that place, of high repute ; his mother 



58 




^. i^r ^b^^rL<ua^ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



was a daughter of John Dodd, of Bloom- 
field, who was an uncle of Vice-Chancellor 
Amzi Dodd. He was prepared for college 
in Morristown, and was graduated from 
Princeton College, in 1834, at the age 
of sixteen. After teaching school for two 
years, he took up law studies under the pre- 
ceptorship of his uncle, the elder Amzi 
Dodd, and afterward under Amzi Arm- 
strong. He was licensed as an attorney in 
1839, the year in which he attained his 
majority, and as counsellor three years 
later. He practiced in Newark for a year 
or two, and then went into the office of 
Jacob W. Miller. The latter had been sent 
to the United States Senate, and Mr. 
Whelpley entered into a good deal of his 
practice, and soon made for himself a place 
at the bar, among lawyers of great ability. 
Earnestly devoted to the work of his pro- 
fession, he gave the whole force of his in- 
tellect and will to the preparation and ar- 
gument of his cases ; was eminently suc- 
cessful in jury trials, and was a trusted ad- 
viser and wise counselor in legal and bus- 
iness affairs. 

Mr. Whelpley made excellent use of his 
ability as an orator at political meetings. 
and took an active part in the political con- 
tests that characterized the stirring cam- 
paigns of a day when questions of concern 
were little discussed by the press, but main- 
ly by recognized leaders in their political 
party. In 1847 he was elected to the As- 
sembly, serving in the sessions of 1848 and 
1849, 3nd as Speaker of the House in hij 
second year. In 1858, at the age of forty 
years, he was appointed an Associate Jus- 
tice of the Supreme Court, and less than 
three years afterward he was advanced to 
the chair of Chief Justice. His promo- 
tion was generally approved, and it was 
hoped that he would stand at the head of 
the court for many years. He was appar- 
ently a strong man, in vigorous health ; but 
after a little more than two years he was 
stricken with an insidious disease, and died 
in 1864, at the early age of forty-six years. 



His brief period of service came between 
the long terms of two great chief justices, 
and he maintained the high standard set 
by Henry W. Green and carried on by Mer- 
cer Beasley. His associates were jurists of 
the highest ability, — on his appointment as 
puisne judge in 1858 were Chief Justice 
Henry W. Green, Elias B. D. Ogden, Luci- 
us O. C. Elmer, Stacy G. Potts, Danie! 
Haines and Peter Vrendenburgh ; and as 
Chief Justice, his associates were William 
S. Clawson, John Van Dyke and George 
H. Brown. His services as Chief Justice 
were during the greater part of the Civil 
War period, and certain of his decisions 
were of great import, as bearing upon the 
taxation of United States bonds, and State 
bonds expressly exempted from taxation. 

Justice Whelpley married Eliza Wood- 
rufif, daughter of Dr. Absalom Woodruff, 
of Mendham. They left four children : 
Edward, who died unmarried ; and three 
daughters : Sarah, wife of William Whelp- 
ley Thomas ; Edwina, wife of Rev. Sanford 
Smith ; and Joanna, wife of Eugene Terry 
Gardiner. There is a portrait of Justice 
Whelpley in the Supreme Court room in 
Trenton. 



STODDARD, Rev. Elijah W., 

Early Educator, Distinguished Divine. 

While there is no doubt that the world is 
struggling upward, there are not many who 
reach the heights attained by the late Rev. 
Elijah Woodward Stoddard. D. D., of 
Succasunna, New Jersey. He was a man 
great and able, true and kind, and his life 
was as white as the sunlight. The soul of 
honor himself, he could not endure duplic- 
ity and equivocation. For ignorance, 
weakness, and even waywardness, he had 
compassion and tenderness ; but bigotry, 
narrowness, and insincerity awaken- 
ed in him an honest loathing. His style 
was chaste, vigorous and incisive; he train- 
ed his congregation like a master, and gave 
to the people a solid and invigorating phil- 



59 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



osophy of life which developed in them a 
deeper intelligence and a more robust faith. 
No just appeal to his humane spirit ever 
failed of a quick and generous response. 
Those who were associated with him and 
came to know the full worth of his nature 
speak of him in words of the highest praise. 
The family from which he was descend- 
ed was an ancient and honorable one, and 
a few words regarding his forbears appear 
appropriate at this point. 

The name Stoddard is derived from the 
office of standard bearer, and was ancient- 
ly written De-la-Standard. The coat of 
arms of the Stoddard family of London is : 
Sable three estoiles and a bordure gules. 
Crest : Out of a ducal coronet a demi horse 
salient, ermine. Motto : Fcstina Lentc. In 
the office of Heraldry, England, the follow- 
ing origin of the Stoddard family is found : 
William Stoddard, knight, came from Nor- 
mandy to England in 1066 with William 
the Conqueror, who was his cousin. Of 
his descendants there is record of Rukard 
Stoddard, of Nottingham, Kent, near El- 
tham, about seven miles from London 
Bridge, where was located the family es- 
tate of about four hundred acres which was 
in the possession of the family in 1490, 
how much before that date is not known, 
and continued until the death of Nicholas 
Stoddard, a bachelor, in 1765. The line is 
as follows : Thomas Stoddard of Royston ; 
John Stoddard of Grindon ; William Stod- 
dard of Royston ; John Stoddard of Roy- 
ston ; Anthony Stoddard of London ; Gid- 
eon Stoddard of London ; Anthony Stod- 
dard of London ; William Stoddard of 
London. 

Anthony Stoddard, son of William 
Stoddard of London, was the immigrant 
of Rev. Elijah Woodward Stoddard, D.D., 
and came to Boston, Massachusetts Bay 
Colony, about 1639. His death occurred 
March 16, 1686-87. He was admitted a 
freeman in 1640 ; was deputy to the Gen- 
eral Court in 1650-59-60, and during 
twenty successive years from 1665 to 1684. 



He married (first) Mary Downing, daugh- 
ter of Hon. Emanuel and Lucy Downing, 
and sister of Sir George, afterward Lord 
George Downing. He married (second) 
Barbara, widow of Captain Joseph Weld, 
of Roxbury. He married (third) 
Christian . 

Rev. Solomon Stoddard, son of Anthony 
and Mary (Downing) Stoddard, was born 
October 4, 1643, and died February 11, 
1729. He was graduated from Harvard 
College in the class of 1662, was later elect- 
ed fellow of the house, and was the first 
librarian of the college, being the incum- 
bent of this office from 1667 to 1674. His 
health having become impaired about thi.-i 
time, he accompanied the governor of Mas- 
sachusetts to the Barbadoes as chaplain, 
and for almost two years preached there to 
the Dissenters. He received a call from 
the church at Northampton in 1669, and 
settled there as minister, September 11. 
1672. Jonathan Edwards, his grandson, 
was elected his colleague in 1726. Rev. 
Stoddard was the author of many books 
on religious subjects, and many of his ser- 
mons were published. He married, 
Esther (Warham) Mather, widow of Rev. 
Eleazer Mather, his predecessor at North- 
ampton. Among his children was a daugh- 
er, Esther, who married Rev. Timothy Ed- 
wards, and became the mother of the Rev. 
Jonathan Edwards, mentioned above. 

Rev. Anthony Stoddard, son of Rev. 
Solomon and Esther (Warham) (Math- 
er) Stoddard, was born August 9, 1678, 
?nd was graduated from Harvard College 
in the class of 1697. He settled as a min- 
ister at Woodbury, Connecticut, where he 
was in active service for a period of sixty 
years. His death occurred September 6, 
1760. He married (first) Prudence Wells; 
(second) Mary Sherman. 

Eliakim Stoddard, son of Rev. Anthony 
and Prudence (Wells) Stoddard, was born 
April 3, 1705. and died in 1750. He lived 
in Woodbury, Connecticut. He married 
Joanna Curtis. 



60 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



John Stoddard, son of Eliakim and Jo- 
anna ( Curtis j Stoddard, was born January 
26, 1730, and died January 22, 1795. He 
was a resident of Watertown, Connecticut, 
and married Mary Atwood, who died in 
Charleston, Montgomery county. New 
York. 

John Stoddard, son of John and Mary 
( Atwood j Stoddard, was born in Water- 
town, Connecticut, July i, 1763, where he 
married Sarah Woodward in 1785. They 
removed to Coventry, Chenango county, 
New York, in 1802, when that section of 
the country was primeval forest. 

Rev. Elijah Woodward Stoddard, second 
son of John and Sarah (Woodward) Stod- 
dard, was born in Coventry, Chenango coun- 
ty, New York, April 2},, 1820, and died Oc- 
tober 29, 191 3. During all his boyhood 
days, and until he attained his majority, a 
part of his daily toil was the labor attend- 
ant upon clearing a forest farm and assist- 
ing in its cultivation. The schoolhouses of 
those days were of the most primitive kind, 
being constructed of logs, and the furni- 
ture was of such a kind as could be manu- 
factured at the least expense. The school 
benches were thick planks of pine wood, 
with a strong supporting pin of oak at 
either end. A smooth board fastened 
against the wall served the purpose of a 
writing desk, and the user of this was 
obliged to turn his back to the school while 
writing. Individual recitation was the rule, 
and class recitation the exception. A black- 
board was an unknown quantity, and for 
the older pupils there were only sessions 
for three or four months during the winter, 
when outdoor farm work had to be suspend- 
ed. The very young children were taught 
during the summer months by a woman 
teacher, as even the half-grown children 
were necessary to accomplish the work of 
the summer months on the farm. As books 
were scarce and very expensive, the suc- 
cess which Mr. Stoddard achieved argues 
a natural aptitude for study not often met 
with. Every moment that could be spent 



from his incessant and arduous labors was 
devoted to the acquisition of knowledge 
and, while he devoured every book in the 
neighborhood which he could borrow or 
acquire for his own, it is a self-evident fact 
that, at that period, his chief means of 
study was the Bible. Owing to this he was 
but twelve years of age when he became a 
church member. 

Six years later he had acquired a suffi- 
cient amount of learning to enable him to 
pass an examination which permitted him 
to become a school teacher. While there 
were many hardships to be contended with 
in this calling at that time, it was one of 
the privileges of this estate to be permitted 
to "board around," a custom now fallen 
into disuse, but which united teacher, pu- 
pils and their parents in bonds of closest 
fellowship. Five winters were spent profit- 
ably in this occupation, and during the sum- 
mers of these years he assisted on the 
homestead farm as he had previously done. 
By this time he had fully decided to enter 
the ministry, and he prepared for college 
at Norwich and Oxford Academies. Ma- 
triculating at Amherst College in Septem- 
ber, 1845, he was graduated from this in- 
stitution in June, 1849, and then became 
a student at the Union Theological Semi- 
nary, from which he was graduated in 
May, 1852. He was delegated by the 
American Home Missionary Society to 
Momence, Kankakee county, Illinois, but 
the climate there having impaired his 
health he was, after a short time, removed 
to Hawley, Pennsylvania, where he re- 
mained in charge three years. In Novem- 
ber, 1856, he answered a call from the Pres- 
byterian church at Amenia, Dutchess coun- 
ty. New York; in May, i860, he went to 
the Presbyterian church in Angelica, New 
York; and May i, 1864, responded to a 
call from the Presbyterian church at Sue- 
casunna. New Jersey, where he remained 
until his death. During his ministry hun- 
dreds were added to the church member- 
ship; he performed four hundred and 



61 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



eighty-eight marriages ; and officiated at 
eight hundred and ninety-seven funerals. 
His sermons were both eloquent and force- 
ful, compelling his hearers to ponder and 
think on the Life Eternal and to lead lives 
of piety and usefulness, he himself setting 
an example well worthy of emulation. In 
September, 1880, Maryville College, of 
East Tennessee, conferred upon him the 
unexpected degree of Doctor of Divinity, 
while those who knew him best felt that it 
was an honor given where honor was due. 
Rev. Dr. Stoddard was also an enthusi- 
astic Christian Endeavor worker, attend- 
ing the national and international Christian 
Endeavor Conventions, bringing from them 
inspiration to the societies at home. He 
stood on the platform at Atlantic City, New 
Jersey, with Fanny Crosby, who claimed 
him to be her "twin brother," as there was 
but one month's difference in their ages. 
Dr. Stoddard was made a life member by 
the Morris County Christian Endeavor 
Union. His later years were a remarkable 
demonstration of Longfellow's maxim that 
"Age has its opportunities, no less than 
youth." In all the walks of life he exhib- 
ted characteristics which compelled respect 
and won admiration. He was an example 
of a man whose life was his creed. No 
taint ever touched his stewardship. His 
manhood and lofty character won and mag- 
netized all true hearts. His life was beau- 
tiful and complete in its symmetry, and was 
a benediction and benefaction. Every act 
of his daily life was made to accord with 
the highest standards, and never fell short 
of the highest ideals of Christianity. His 
work, viewed from different angles, was a 
noble and inspiring achievement. As a 
Sunday school teacher and organizer he had 
but few peers. In all his commerce with 
the world the predominance of his ecclesi- 
astical character was manifest. The 
preacher, the useful minister, was the pic- 
ture which he kept constantly be- 
fore his eye. He never forgot the 
ermine which he wore, "Behold an 



Israelite in whom is no guile." He 
was a humanized interpretation of the 
Golden Rule, an incarnation of the Sermon 
on the Mount. Charity for every human 
weakness was the dominating element in his 
character, and mercy the controlling force 
in every judgment. Among all his quali- 
ties none was more engaging than his posi- 
tive genius for making friends. Rev. Dr. 
Stoddard married (first) July 16, 1852, 
Eliza West Concklin, born in New York 
City, April 26, 1829, died in Succasunna, 
New Jersey, October 23, 1874, a daughter 
of Jonas W. and Eliza (West) Concklin 
They had one son : George Henry, born in 
Hawley, Wayne county, Pennsylvania, 
June 7, 1853, died July 30, of the same 
year. The mother and son were buried in 
Oak Hill Cemetery, Nyack, New York, in 
the family plot of Jonas W. Concklin. He 
married (second) November 28, 1877, 
Mrs. Eliza A. (Piatt) Stoddard, born in 
New York City, June 15, 1838. She is a 
daughter of George W. and Eliza Piatt, 
and widow of Professor John F. Stoddard, 
the mathematician. By her first marriage 
she had a daughter, Eliza Piatt Stoddard, 
born July 21, 1869, died May 19, 1886, who 
was a member of the household at Succa- 
sunna parsonage for eight years. Hers 
was a bright, intellectual and beautiful 
Christian character. The Memorial Chap- 
el standing near the Presbyterian Church, 
erected by Mrs. Stoddard in 1887, is her 
most fitting monument. So long as this 
chapel can do service in the worship of 
God, it will emphasize her words : "You 
need Christ and Christ needs you to work 
for him." "I want to do real work for 
Christ." 

The work of Dr. Stoddard lives invisi- 
ble but mighty in the souls of those whom 
he influenced, and "although dead he yet 
speaketh." It is pleasant to reflect that in 
his later years he was surrounded with all 
that should accompany old age — honor, 
love, troops of friends — and that he wore 
the crown of all men's good will around his 



62 





--^-z^-* 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



brow, and we are confident that he shall 
hear the words of the Master: "Well done, 
good and faithful servant, enter thou into 
the joy of thy Lord." 



GOODWIN, Rev. Hannibal, 

Clergyman, Man of Inventive Genins. 

The Church, from the earliest times, has 
wielded a power superior to that of the 
State, for the reason that the spiritual per- 
vades and moulds and, sooner or later, 
dominates the temporal. That the influ- 
ence of the Church has steadily increased 
in recent years is questioned by few 
thoughtful and penetrating observers. 
While, perhaps, less obviously and institu- 
tionally exerted, it is for that very reason 
more pervasive and powerful. Especially 
is this the case when the Church's leaders 
are men of broad minds and liberal senti- 
ments, quick to discern "the signs of the 
times," men of the type so forcibly repre- 
sented by the late Rev. Hannibal Goodwin, 
of Newark, New Jersey. His earlier years 
were passed in the country, and he never 
lost his love for the simplicity of rural life. 

Rev. Hannibal Goodwin was born April 
21, 1822, on a farm at what was then called 
Goodwin's Point, now Taughannock Falls, 
Cayuga Lake, New York, and at a suitable 
age began his attendance at the district 
school in that vicinity. He was a leader 
among his schoolmates, in mischief as well 
as in the more serious business of school 
life, and was in trouble on more than one 
occasion by reason of the boyish pranks 
which he instigated. His mischief, how- 
ever, was never of the kind to work seri- 
ous harm to any one, and he was very gen- 
erally beloved, even in those early days. 
Later he became a student at Union Col- 
lege, Schenectady, New York, from which 
he was graduated, and then entered Yale 
College in order to pursue legal studies. 
Feeling himself better fitted for religious 
work, he turned his efforts in that direction, 
and entered the Union Theological Semi- 



nary, New York, to prepare himself for 
the duties of a minister of the Methodist 
Church. Having paid a visit to Old Trinity 
Oiurch, he was so deeply impressed with 
the beauty of the Episcopal service that he 
matriculated at the General Theological 
Seminary, and there prepared himself to 
serve as a minister of that denomination. 
He graduated in the class of 185 1, and in 
1852 he married Miss Rebecca Allen, eldest 
daughter of Joseph Allen of New York 
City. Immediately after his marriage he 
accepted a call to Girist Church, Borden- 
town, where he remained three years. In 
1855 he became rector of St. Paul's 
Qiurch, Newark, New Jersey, where he 
officiated about five years. His next field 
of usefulness was Trenton, and while min- 
istering there he developed a bronchial 
trouble which threatened to become of so 
serious a nature that it was deemed advis- 
able that he be removed to a more suitable 
climate, for a time at least. Going to Cali- 
fornia in December, 1859, he was sent to 
Napa Valley by Bishop Kip, and there or- 
ganized the first Episcopal church in that 
section. Marysville was his next home, and 
there the climate, which was much drier 
and warmer, was of great benefit to him. 
He spent about three years there, during 
this time taking charge of St. John's 
Church. Yielding to the solicitation of Bib- 
hop Kip, Rev. Goodwin then went to San 
Francisco, where he organized a church 
school for girls, in connection with Grace 
Cathedral, and later was in charge of this 
cathedral for a number of years while the 
Bishop was absent. The rectorship of the 
House of Prayer, in Newark, was next of- 
fered him, in 1867, and he discharged the 
duties of this office for a period of twenty 
years. 

Even in boyhood. Rev. Goodwin had 
been noted for the keeness of his inventive 
faculties, and in later life this bent was 
more fully developed. Had he not chosen 
the ministry as his calling, and devoted all 
his attention to inventions, in all probabil ■ 



63 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ity he would now be classed in the same 
plane as Edison, Marconi, and others of 
like caliber. As it is, the invention which 
brought his name prominently before the 
public was the Kodak film, an invention 
which has made possible many wonders in 
the photographic world. A better discrip- 
tion of it cannot be given than in extracts 
from an interview with a representative of 
"The Newark Sunday Call." Rev. Good- 
win said in part : 

"Yes, my invention — but I don't like to be call- 
ed an inventor. A priest of the church is my 
title, and of that I am proud, and I am glad to 
state that at the very time I happened to make 
this invention, I was exercising a certain feature 
of my ministerial profession. It was in this wise : 
Prior to the time I invented the kodak film I 
had often preached, and had written not a little 
upon the religious education of the young. The 
importance of impressing the minds of the young 
by means of pictorial or stereopticon illustra- 
tions of Scriptural events and scenes had often 
occurred to me. I had imparted these views to 
Jabez Hayes, a layman of Grace Church, and 
soon afterward I received a check of one hun- 
dred and fifty dollars to be invested in stereop- 
ticon apparatus. The next thing to be done was 
to secure a proper series of Biblical subjects, 
but these were not readily procurable, and I de- 
termined to make my own selections, and make 
the photographs on glass. During the course of 
my experiments at my own home, I became con- 
vinced of the necessity of having a substitute for 
glass, which should have the qualities of greater 
durability and less weight. My idea was to have 
a long strip of some transparent material, which 
could be wound on a spool, and would be light 
enough to be carried about by the travehng pho- 
tographer. Research convinced me that it was a 
longfelt and sorely needed article in the art of 
photography, and, utilizing the knowledge of 
chemistry I had acquired during my collegiate 
studies, I commenced a series of experiments, at 
first with collodion, then with other materials, 
until success crowned rriy efforts. Early in 1887 
I applied for a patent, but as the subject matter 
was one which had never been presented in any 
form at the Patent Office prior to this time, there 
was a considerable and unnecessary delay. In 
the meantime, while my claim for a patent was 
pending, H. Reichenbach, a. chemist in the em- 
ploy of the Eastman Company, applied for a 
patent on a film of a similar kind, and this was 



the cause of long investigation, my patent not 
being granted until September 13, 1898." 

Later the Goodwin Film and Camera 
Company was formed by Mrs. Goodwin, 
widow of Rev. Goodwin, and subsequently 
the Ansco Company, of Binghamton, 
bought up the Goodwin Film and Camera 
Company, and brought suit against the 
Eastman Company, in December, 1902, for 
infringement under the Goodwin patent. 
This gave rise to prolonged litigation, a 
settlement being finally reached in March, 
1914, when the Eastman Company agreed 
to pay a substantial sum to the owners of 
the Goodwin film patents. 

Rev. Goodwin made a number of other 
important inventions. One is a photo- 
graphic screen and plate holder for process 
half-tone work, planned on entirely new 
principles. Many operators in the field of 
photo-engraving regard him as the father 
of the many fine processes which have done 
so much for illustrating and the education 
of the masses. He is credited with having 
discovered the basic methods upon which 
the half-tone work is being done to-day, 
and with teaching young men who are now 
at the head of this industry in this country. 
He took no profit for himself from his im- 
portant discoveries, but freely gave his 
knowledge to young men who desired to 
go into business, and who have grown rich 
from the knowledge he instilled in them. 

Mr. Goodwin left a widow, and three 
adopted children, a son, Francis M. Good- 
win, and two daughters, Eleanor H. Good- 
win and Mrs. Mary Beckwith. His death 
left a void in the community which can 
scarcely be filled, so manifold were his ac- 
tivities and so great was his influence for 
good. No better estimate can be given of 
the love and veneration in which he was 
held, than in the following extract from 
the "Church Porch," of January, 1901 : 

Newark probably never numbered among its 
residents a clergyman with more friends than 
the Rev. Hannibal Goodwin. Though men dif- 
fered with Mr. Goodwin, they liked him, admir- 



64 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ed his ability and esteemed him because of his 
high personal character and his benevolent and 
friendly nature. A man of great stature and im- 
posing presence, he looked to be a king among 
men. In the pulpit he was more than a preacher, 
he was a true orator. Early in his discourse he 
gripped the minds of his hearers, and he held 
their closet attention, while in simple language, 
that was marked by just enough rhetorical orna- 
ment, he forced home his argument or plea. He 
was a skillful dialectician and could defend the 
school of churchmanship in which he was a lead- 
er with great ability, and his kindly disposition 
kept him from wounding an adversary by the 
employment of cutting irony or severe invective. 
In short, in the pulpit and in social intercourse, 
he was rarely known to use an unkind word. 
One of his most beautiful sermons was upon St. 
Paul's ode to charity. He took up each passage 
in it — 'Charity suffereth long and is kind, charity 
envieth not, charity vaunteth not itself, is not 
puffed up, is not easily provoked, beareth all 
things, etc' — ^and showed how each precept may 
be violated. He did this in a most effective and 
persuasive way, and what he then preached he 
practiced in Newark every day for more than 
thirty years. In short, his great patience, his 
humble yet dignified demeanor, his exceeding 
tenderness and courtesy, the careful watch which 
he set upon his lips, these conspicuous traits of 
Mr. Goodwin made him a living exemplification 
of the charity which St. Paul exalted. It is 
scarcely necessary to add that besides being a 
strong preacher he was also by nature an ideal 
pastor. Not only his fine presence and marked 
ability, but his faithfulness and broad sympathy 
seemed to mark him in his prime as a priest pre- 
eminently fit for the Episcopal office ; and he was 
named in connection with a vacant bishopric, 
but was set aside, being regarded as too extreme 
in his churchmanship to be advanced to a place 
of high influence. In recent years some men of 
the so-called Catholic school have been chosen 
to be bishops, but in the days when Mr. Goodwin 
was fighting the battles of that school, in the 
Episcopal Church, its champions could not hope 
for preferment. 

The following minute has been adopted by a 
committee of clergy present at the services 
in The House of Prayer on Thursday. The 
committee was appointed by the Bishop of the 
Diocese immediately after the services. 

In the death of the Rev. Hannibal Goodwin, a 
heroic figure and one long identified with the re- 
ligious life of the City of Newark, has been re- 
moved from the Church on earth. We recognize 
him as having been a zealous minister of the 



Word and Sacraments, a laborious workman of 
Christ, a most instructive ' and faithful parish 
priest, an eloquent preacher and a friend to the 
poor and outcast. In the various fields of labor 
in which he was engaged, he proved himself firm 
in maintaining the Catholic faith ; and at a time 
when the principles of divine worship in the 
beauty of holiness were less understood and less 
in evidence than they are now, he was always a 
steadfast leader in the advanced movement. 
While for the last thirteen years he was relievea 
from parochial cares, he did not forget the sac- 
red responsibilities of his sacred office, and his 
ministrations in different parishes where his ser- 
vices were required, kept him in touch with the 
active life of the church. He retained to the last 
the respect and affection of those among wfiom 
it had been his duty to minister, and he was held 
in high esteem by the community at large. We de- 
sire on behalf of the clergy present at his burial, 
to bear our testimony to the high value of the life 
and services of our departed brother. 



VREELAND, Warren, 

Man. of Many-sided Ability. 

The many and sterling qualities possess- 
ed by the late Warren Vreeland, of Nut- 
ley, New Jersey, can be more thoroughly 
understood when we trace the earlier his- 
tory of his family, for there we will find 
those virtues which distinguished the early 
pioneers and made many of the names 
noted in history. 

Michael Jansen Vreelandt founded this 
family in America. He left Broeckhuy- 
sen, in North Brabant, in the ship "Rens- 
selaerwyck," October i, 1636, and settled 
at what is now Greenbush, opposite Al- 
bany, New York. There he was a "boer- 
eknecht," or farm servant, a kind of work 
he soon abandoned for the more lucrative 
one of fur trading, in which it is said "he 
made his fortune in two years." The 
Dutch West India Company, however, 
claimed this trade as its sole prerogative, 
and Mr. Vreelandt removed to New Am- 
sterdam, prior to November 4, 1644, em- 
powering Arent Van Curler to settle his 
accounts and differences with Patroon Van 
Rensselaer. In 1646 he settled in Com- 



n-5 



65 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



munipaw, on the bouwerie owned by Jan 
Evertsen Bout, and in 1647-49-50, he rep- 
resented Pavonia in the Council of Nine, 
and joined his associates in their crusade 
against Governor Peter Stuyvesant. It was 
at his house that the journal of Van der 
Donck was seized, and it is supposed that 
the seizure was on information furnished 
by himself. July 26, 1649, he was one 
of the signers of the application for the 
first municipal government in New Nether- 
land. He was also the inventor and inau- 
gurator of the excise license system in New 
Jersey, his plan and petition being present- 
ed and granted, June 15, 1654. On Sep- 
tember 15, 1655, the Indians massacred 
everyone in the Pavonia community except 
the family of Mr. Vreelandt, which was 
obliged to take refuge in New Am- 
sterdam ; and there, because he was 
"an old man with a heavy fam- 
ily," who had lost his all, he was 
allowed to open a taproom, November 22, 
1655. In February, 1656, he was granted 
a lot in the city for the same reason, and 
Februarv 21, 1657, he was appointed one 
of the measurers of lime and grain. April 
13, 1657, he was enrolled as one of the 
lesser burghers. January 22. 1658, he ask- 
ed for permission to return to Communi- 
paw, and three years later he was living 
there on his own farm in competence. He 
was one of the first magistrates of the new 
court at Bergen, and in December, 1662, 
he joined in the petition to the Governor 
for a minister of the Gospel, to whose sup- 
port he pledged twenty-five florins. His 
death occurred in 1663. He married Fitje 
Hartmans, who died September 21, 1697. 
They had six sons and two daughters, and 
from these the Vreelands are descended. 
The old homestead of the Vreeland family 
bears the date 1702, and is still standing 
on the west bank of the Passaic river, a 
little to the north of the Avondale bridge, 
and is now known as the "Bend View 
House." 

On the maternal side the ancestry of 



Warren Vreeland is no less worthy of men^ 
tion. His great-grandfather, John Spear, 
located about two hundred yards north of 
the Belleville bridge, on the east side of the 
street, the house being still there, and 
serves as one of the old and valued land- 
marks of the section. He became the 
owner of much real estate, on a part of 
which the Dutch church and the residence 
of Mrs. Tucker (a great-granddaughter) 
are situated. From the old church steeple 
in Belleville, he shot a British refugee on 
the other side of the river, and the watch 
found in the dead man's pocket was giv- 
en him as a reward for his excellent marks- 
manship. Captain John Spear, Jr., was in 
charge of the guard house in Belleville, 
and rendered excellent service in this ca- 
pacity. He participated in many engage- 
ments, notably the hard winter at Valley 
Forge. The sword which he carried 
throughout this war. his commission from 
Governor Livingston of New Jersey, his 
book of accounts, and the watch referred 
to above, are in the possession of his grand- 
daughter, Mrs. Tucker. One of the treas- 
ured possessions, which was especially val- 
ued by the late Warren Vreeland, was the 
pistol used by his grandfather, John Vree- 
land, during the Revolutionary War. 

Warren Vreeland was born in the old 
stone house on Chestnut street, Nutley, 
April 15, 1822. and died April 20, 1909. 
The first twenty years of his life were spent 
under the same roof with his grandmother, 
and in this way he received much informa- 
tion regarding Revolutionary events which 
he could not otherwise have obtained. 
The house in which he was born, still stand- 
ing in an excellent state of preservation, is 
owned by his daughter. Laura — Mrs. W. 
]. Tuers, and is occupied as a club house 
by the Woman's Club. His education was 
acquired in the public school of Nutley. 
and he supplemented this by considerable 
reading, mainly on the subject of mechan- 
ics and inventions. He was broad minded 
and in his ideas was ahead of his day. 



66 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Long before the Hague Tribunal was 
thought of he advocated the settlement of 
International differences by arbitration 
rather than the sword. In early manhood 
he went west, settling on a farm in Wis- 
consin, which he cultivated for a period of 
seven years, and then decided that he was 
better fitted for mechanical work and re- 
turned to Nutley. There he had formerly 
worked in the woolen mills of the Dun- 
cans, and upon his return, meeting one of 
the Duncans on the street, he was imme- 
diately informed that his old place in the 
mills was open to him if he chose to oc- 
cupy it, so highly was his ability as a ma- 
chinist appreciated. Mr. Vreeland was the 
owner of a blacksmith's shop and wheel 
w right establishment in Nutley, which he 
conducted with a very satisfactory amount 
of success. He became the owner of a 
large quantity of real estate, which is now 
in the possession of his children. Mr. 
Vreeland was a man of many-sided ability. 
While he had never learned the trade, he 
was a capable carpenter, and could build a 
house as well as an expert in this line. In 
fact, he could turn his hand to almost any- 
thing in the mechanical line, and make a 
decided success of the undertaking. He "''>« 
a man of action and influence in local politi- 
cal matters, and served many times as a 
member of the Commission of Appeals. At 
first a strong supporter of the Whig party, 
he later affiliated with the Greenbackers, and 
finally became a strong Prohibitionist. 
While he never was a regular or frequent 
church-goer, he was a man of deep and 
true religious convictions, and his entire life 
was one of good will to all. 

Mr. Vreeland married, March 17, 1847, 
Jane E. Lloyd, born July 10, 1819. died 
April 12, 1907, a daughter of John W. 
Lloyd, of Morristown, New Jersey. In 
1897 they celebrated their golden wedding 
anniversary, and both were living at the 
time of the sixtieth anniversary. Children : 
I. Virginia, married (first) William Mc- 
Farland, and had children : Eva, Harvey 



and Grace ; after his death she married 
(second) his brother, John McFarland. 2. 
Everett, who died in 1894. 3. Laura Mason, 
who married W. J. Tuers, of Paterson, 
New Jersey, and has one child : Russell. 



RUNYON, Theodore, 

Iiairyer, Jurist, Diplomat. 

When Joel Parker, the first of the Dem- 
ocratic Governors after the war, was called 
upon in 1873 to appoint a Chancellor of 
the State of New Jersey, he selected a 
Democrat who had been a loyal soldier and 
was a brilliant advocate at the bar, Theo- 
dore Runyon. He was not then known as 
a learned lawyer, but he was a man of quiet 
intelligence, clear perceptions and strong 
sense of justice, accomplished, versatile 
with a wide knowledge of affairs and of 
men (Courts and Lawyers of New Jersey, 
Keasby). 

As Chancellor and Presiding Judge of 
the Court of Errors, he displayed wonder- 
ful powers and so fully proved his quali- 
fications for this position of great power 
and trust that the New Jeresy bar after 
fourteen years association with him urged 
upon Governor Green the wisdom of again 
appointing him, stating in a petition that 
"He has in the whole administration of his 
office exhibited the intellect, learning, in- 
dustry, wisdom, spirit and temper which go 
to make up a great equity judge." 

As Ambassador to Germany he gained 
favor with the German government, filling 
his high office with dignity and credit. 
Whether he be considered as lawyer, jur- 
ist, soldier, diplomat or citizen, his charac- 
ter shines forth with a brilliancy that for- 
ever insures him a permanent place in the 
New Jersey Hall of Fame. 

Theodore Runyon was born in Somer- 
ville. New Jersey, October 25, 1822, son of 
Abraham Runyon, and a descendant of the 
Huguenot, Vincent Rognion, one of the 
earliest settlers of Piscataway township, 
Middlesex county. New Jersey. He receiv- 



67 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ed his preparatory education in the schools 
of Plainfield and New York; later entered 
Yale College where he was graduated in 
1842. He and his friend, A. Q. Keasby, 
were among the founders of the famous 
College Society, Scroll and Keys, and on 
the fiftieth anniversary of the founding 
of the Society, both delivered eloquent ad 
dresses. After graduating Mr. Runyon 
began the study of law in Newark, under 
Asa Whitehead, continuing until the July 
term, 1846, when he was admitted to the 
bar and licensed an attorney. Three years 
later he was admitted a counselor. He be- 
gan practice in Newark at once rising rap- 
idly in public favor until 1853, when he 
was made city attorney and advanced to 
city counsel in 1856, holding the latter of- 
fice for eight years. He evinced the great- 
est interest in public affairs and developed 
a strong liking for military life. He join- 
ed the militia and in 1857 was appointed 
Brigadier General for Essex county. He 
was fond of his title, and was commonly 
known as General Runyon, even when he 
became Chancellor and Ambassador, and 
at the Court of Berlin wore the uniform of 
a major general of the United States Army. 
When the Civil War was inevitable, he en- 
listed and in 1861 was commissioned brig- 
adier-general of the First Brigade, New 
Jersey Volunteers, and assumed command 
on April 27th of that year. His regiment 
attained its full quoto on April 30th, and 
was one of the first to leave for the seat 
of war, reaching Washington on May 6th, 
nineteen days after the first man was mus- 
tered in. The regiment was engaged on the 
defences of Washington and one of these. 
Fort Runyon, was named for the General. 
The regiment served its full term of enlist- 
ment, three months, then returning. When 
General Runyon returned in August, 1861, 
before quitting the field he received the 
thanks of President Lincoln, personally 
tendered in the presence of the cabinet, for 
his services and those of the New Jersey 
Brigade. Complimentary resolutions were 



passed by the New Jersey Legislature, and 
on February 26, 1862, he was appointed in 
compliance with the recommendation of 
the House of Assembly, major-general by 
brevet. 

He at once began the practice of law in 
Newark and became very influential in po- 
litical affairs. He had been a presidential 
elector in i860. Was elected mayor of 
Newark in 1864 and was the candidate of 
his party for Governor of the State in 
1865, only failing an election by two 
thousand seven hundred and eighty-nine 
votes, meeting defeat at the hands of Mar- 
cus L. Ward, the Republican candidate. He 
was appointed major-general of the New 
Jersey National Guard in 1869, holding that 
rank until his appointment as Chancellor, 
four years later. During all these years 
he was actively engaged in the practice of 
his profession and had gained a good repu- 
tation as a successful jury lawyer. A 
bright and ready speaker, persuasive and 
forceful, his manner pleasing and his logic 
convincing, he was one of the strong men 
of the Essex bar and recognized as one of 
the most capable and efficient lawyers of the 
decade following the Civil War. On April 
29, 1873, Governor Joel Parker appointed 
him, with Abraham O. Zabriskie, Robert 
Gilchrist, Augustus W. Cutter, Mercer 
Beasley and other commissioners, to prepare 
amendments to the State constitution, and 
about the same time Governor Parker an- 
nouced the appointment of Theodore Run- 
yon to succeed Abraham O. Zabriskie as 
Chancellor of the State. At this time he 
was president of the Manufacturers' Bank 
of Newark, resigning that position on as- 
suming the new office. He took his seat 
at the May term, 1873, and for fourteen 
years thereafter most ably filled his high 
position and covered by his numerous opin- 
ions the whole province of equity, enriching 
and developing that most important branch 
of the jurisprudence of the State. His ex- 
tensive learning, remarkable facility of 
thought and expression, his sound jiidg- 



68 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



merit, instinctive sense of equity, indefat- 
igable industry, and as the years progressed, 
his long experience on the bench rendered 
him particularly qualified to fill the high 
position to which he was twice appointed. 
The whole bar was indignant and disap- 
pointed when he was not appointed the 
third time, voicing their displeasure in no 
uncertain manner. It was not only his 
great ability as a judge, nor his wise ex- 
ecutive qualities, but his sympathy, winning 
personality and charming manner made 
personal friends of all who came under his 
influence. To the younger men of the bar 
he was especially kind and helpful, giving 
them a sense of companionship and in help- 
ing them in obtaining justice for their cli- 
ents, thus stimulating and encouraging 
them to do their best. His decisions while 
Chancellor were numerous, exceedingly 
weighty and valuable, these discussions all 
being reported in connection with the im- 
portant cases thus decided and comprising 
an important addition to judicial precedent 
and literature. After retiring from the 
bench, the ex-Chancellor returned to pri- 
vate practice in Newark and became one of 
the busiest lawyers, his proved ability and 
the prestige of his high oflice bringing him 
clients of the highest class and cases of the 
greatest importance. 

In 1893 President Cleveland appointed 
him Minister to Germany, that post being 
soon afterwards raised in rank by Act of 
Congress to that of Ambassador. As a 
diplomat he gained additional renown, and 
with dignity and credit upheld the highest 
American traditions. While in Berlin his 
old college mate and lifetime friend, A. 
Q. Keasbey, died in Rome, Italy, the Am- 
bassador rendering the greatest assistance 
and almost tenderness to the daughters of 
his friend. He filled his e.xalted office with 
the greatest credit, until his sudden death 
at the German capital, January 27. 1896. 

There is no eulogy of General Runyon 
that can overestimate his greatness. He 
was tried under every circumstance and his 



career graces the annals of his native Statt 
shining with brightest lustre when respon 
sibility was greatest and qualities of tTuc\ 
manhood demanded. He is best remember- 
ed as the gifted Chancellor but as Ambassa- 
dor he won a reputation as the equal of any 
representative of a foreign power at the 
German capitol, his deep learning in both 
law and literature, his mastery of several 
modern languages, his accomplished ora- 
tory and his brilliant writings making a 
deep impression upon the German Court 
and upon the foreign diplomats there ac- 
credited. Wesleyan University recognized 
his scholarly attainments by conferring the 
honorary degree of LL.D., August 15, 
1869, Rutgers College conferred the same 
degree in 1875 and Yale University in 1882. 
General Runyon married, in 1864, Clem- 
entina, daughter of William D. Bruen of 
Newark, who survives him. Children; 
Mary Clementine, married Harry C. Has- 
kins of New York ; Frederick T. ; Julie B. 
Leonard C. ; and Helen L. married E. Al 
vah Wilkinson. 



VAN HOUTEN, Anthony B., 

Prominent Builder and Man of Affairs. 

Anthony B. Van Houten, for many years 
one of the most active business men of Pat- 
erson. New Jersey, was born September 8, 
1833, at Oakland, Bergen county. New Jer- 
sey, son of Martin and Hester (Bartram) 
\'an Houten. He was a descendant of one 
of the oldest Dutch families of New Jer- 
sey, which was originally planted in Bergen 
county, and shortly afterward was active in 
the settlement of what is now Passaic. 

Among the early settlers of the ancient 
town of Bergen, which is now Jersey Gty, 
were three brothers, Helmigh, Cornells and 
Tunis Roelofse, that is, sons of Roelof. One 
of these, Cornells Roelofse, who took the 
surname Van Houten, indicating the locali- 
ty whence he came in Holland, was among 
the patentees of Acquackanonck, which em- 
braced the present city of Passaic, in 1684. 



69 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



His descendants have continued to reside in 
that section down to the present day, and 
have ever proved themselves worthy and 
useful citizens. The farm on which An- 
thony B. Van Houten was born had been, 
loi many generations, in the family, and a 
part of it is still owned by his heirs. The 
original homestead is now a part of the 
Page summer home. 

Anthony B. Van Houten attended the 
local schools for a period of eight months 
only, and was chiefly self-educated. He 
was eight years old at the time of his fath- 
er's death, when the family included nine 
children, and he was early obliged to make 
his own way in the world. While stil! a 
boy he went to New York City, where he 
served an apprenticeship with a well-known 
builder named Christy, learning the trade 
of carpenter. At the age of twenty-one 
years he was working on and had charge of 
the construction of the building of the 
Pacific National Bank building in New 
y^ork. He continued at his trade in that 
city until 1866, when he removed to Pater- 
son, New Jersey, and engaged in building 
construction with his brothers William H. 
twenty-one years of this association the 
H. and James Van Houten. During the 
brothers constructed many of the principal 
buildings of Paterson, among the first of 
which was that of the First National Bank. 
During his activities in this connection, 
Anthony B. Van Houten became known as 
the leading builder of the city. Among 
the numerous churches which he con- 
structed were the Church of the Redeemer 
and the Second Presbyterian Church, Bap- 
tist Church and Grace Methodist Episcopal 
Church, and he also erected Washington 
Hall. About 1888, James Van Houten re- 
tired from the firm, and in 1892 Anthony 
B. Van Houten purchased the interest of 
the other brother, and continued business 
under the name of A. B. Van Houten until 
1900, when his son, Edmund Van Houten, 
was admitted, and the business was after- 
wards conducted under the style of A. B. 



Van Houten & Son. The headquarters of 
the concern has been located, since 1868, at 
68-78 Paterson street, where a planing 
mill and lumber yard are maintained, and 
a general mill business carried on. 

Anthony B. Van Houten continued ac- 
tively in business until a very short 
time preceding his death, which oc- 
curred August 25, 1914. He was 
early in life a member of the Market 
Street Methodist Episcopal Church, and 
later united with the Grace Methodist Epis- 
copal Church, of which he was one of the 
founders and treasurer for twenty years, 
and near which he resided for some time. 
He again joined the Market Street Church, 
of which he was treasurer over twenty 
years and trustee twenty-six years. In his 
earlier years he was among the most active 
workers in the Sunday school. For forty- 
seven years his home was at No. 83 Ham- 
ilton avenue, Paterson, in the first building 
constructed by the brothers when they 
started in business in Paterson. For many 
years preceding his death his summers were 
spent in Oakland, where he had a country 
home, within half a mile of his birth place, 
and there he died in his eighty-first year. 

Mr. Van Houten was a patriot, ever in- 
terested in the welfare of his country, state 
and city, but did not devote much time to 
political matters, his only official service 
being in the capacity of judge of election. 
His time was very largely devoted to his 
home and church. In 1909, when seventy- 
five years of age. he made a trip to Europe, 
visiting many countries. He had previous- 
ly been an extensive traveler in his native 
land, spending considerable time at the Yel- 
lowstone Park, in California, Florida and 
Canada, and was thoroughly familiar with 
the interesting scenes of his home country. 
A great lover of nature, he ever maintained 
that the natural scenery in this country sur- 
passed in grandeur and beauty any to be 
found in Europe. A self-made man, he 
was ever interested in movements calculat- 
ed to build up and promote the welfare of 



70 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



the city of Paterson. Of genial, kindly dis- 
position, he was respected by all, and was 
especially active in all religious works. He 
married (first) Sarah Davis, and they were 
the parents of two children : Hester and 
Martin. He married (second) Eupheniia 
F. Stephens, a native of Westchester coun- 
ty. New York, daughter of Daniel and 
Jeanette (Odell) Stephens, of old West- 
chester county families. The parental home- 
stead is now a part of Kensico Cemetery. 
Mrs. Van Houten was ever the coadjutor 
of her husband in good works, ever active 
in the labors of the church, and in every 
charitable undertaking. After a life com- 
panionship of over fifty years, they were 
separated but a short time by death. She 
passed away March 3, 1915, surviving her 
husband less than seven months. They 
were the parents of three children: Ed- 
mund. Jennie and Nellie. 



TALMAGE, Thomas DeWitt, 

Noted Divine and Lecturer. 

Rev. Thomas De Witt Talmage was born 
at Bound Brook, Somerset county, New 
Jersey, January 7, 1832, the youngest of 
twelve children — five girls and seven boys. 
His father, David T. Talmage, was a farm- 
er, whose predominant traits were geni- 
ality, firmness and decision of character. 
His mother was a woman of marked ami- 
ability, gentleness, and keen wit. In the 
son's character these traits appeared to be 
very nearly united. For more than a quar- 
ter of a century the Talmage ancestry were 
members of the Reformed Dutch Church, 
in which David T. Talmage was a leading 
ofificial. 

Thomas De Witt Talmage's preliminary 
studies were made in the grammar school 
at New Brunswick, New Jersey, under Pro- 
fessor Thompson. In his early life he 
showed the possession of acute powers of 
observation and a retentive memory. En- 
dowed with great bodily vigor, he was en- 
thusiastic in all that he undertook. His 



entrance into the church was undoubtedly 
on account of the fact that two of his uncles, 
one brother-in-law, and three brothers had 
become ministers of the gospel. At the age 
of eighteen he joined the church, and the 
following year entered the University of 
the City of New York. Here he did not 
exhibit any great brilliancy, but displayed a 
talent in oratory and dramatic capacity 
which made him notable and attracted at- 
tention on exhibition days. It is said of 
him, also, that as a scholar in belles-lettres 
he was without a rival among all the stu- 
dents of his period in the university. He was 
graduated in May, 1853. the exercises being 
held in Niblo's Garden, New York City, 
and his oration aroused the audience to a 
high pitch of enthusiasm. Its subject was, 
"The Moral Effects of Sculpture and Ar- 
chitecture," and it was published in full in 
one of the New York daily papers, being 
the first literary article of Mr. Talmage's 
ever printed. At the close of his college 
studies De Witt imagined himself interest- 
ed in the law, and became a student in a 
law ofiice, where he remained for three 
years. He then conceived that he had made 
a mistake, and prepared himself for the 
ministry at the Reformed Dutch Church 
Theological Seminary in New Brunswick, 
New Jersey, and was ordained by the 
Reformed Dutch Classis of Bergen. 

Just after his ordination, the young min- 
ister received two calls — one from Pier- 
mont, New York, the other from Belleville, 
New Jersey. He accepted the latter, filled 
that charge for three years, and was then 
called to Syracuse, New York, where his 
talents for preaching frequently crowded 
the church, and began to be noted. About 
this time Mr. Talmage married Miss 
Avery, of "Brooklyn, by whom he had two 
children, a girl and a boy. Afterward he 
became pastor of the Second Reformed 
Dutch Church of Philadelphia, where his 
sermons were first published, and gained 
almost immediate recognition and populari- 
ty. Here Mr. Talmage had the misfortune 



71 




Syaro'tt iy. (yofidi/ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



published numerous lectures and addresses 
in the magazines, and was the author of 
"Crumbs Swept Up," (1870) ; "Sermons," 
(4 vols.. New York, 1872-75) ; "Abomin- 
ations of Modern Society," (New York, 
1872 ; 2d ed., 1876) ; "Old Wells Dug Out,' 
(1874); "Sports That Kill," (New York, 
1875) ; "Night Sides of City Life," (1878) ; 
"The Brooklyn Tabernacle; a Collection ot 
104 Sermons," (1884), and "The Marriage 
Ring," (1886). Dr. Talmage also supple- 
mented his clerical duties by editing "The 
Christian at Work" (1873-76); "The Ad- 
vance" (Chicago, 1877-78), and "Frank 
Leslie's Sunday Magazine. 



SE'WELL, William Joyce, 

Civil War Veteran, Statesman. 

William Joyce Sewell was born at Castlc- 
bar, Ireland, December 6, 1835. Losing 
his parents at an early age, he came to 
America in 1851 and obtained employment 
in New York City. Subsequently he made 
two voyages to Australia and China, before 
the mast, and upon his return he first set- 
tled in Chicago, Illinois, and later removed 
to Camden, New Jersey. 

At the beginning of the Civil War he 
entered the service as a captain in the 
Fifth New Jersey Infantry. He parti'''- 
pated in nearly all the battles of the Army 
of the Potomac ; and in the desperate battle 
of Chancellorsville, while leading a brilli- 
ant charge in command of the Second New 
Jersey Brigade, he captured eight stands of 
the enemy's colors, and recaptured the flag 
of a New York regiment. At the close of 
the war he was mustered out as brigadier- 
general, and by special act of Legislature 
was given the same rank in the National 
Guard of New Jersey. He was brevetted 
major-general by the President, and receiv- 
ed from Congress a medal of honor. 

After the war he became actively inter- 
ested in railroads, and was vice-president 
of the West New Jersey line and a director 
of the Pennsylvania road. In 1872 he was 



elected to the State Senate as a representa- 
tive from Camden county, and by reelec- 
tions served until 1881, being president of 
that body in 1876, 1879 and 1880. He se- 
cured the passage of the municipal railroad 
tax law, which added large revenues to the 
State. In 1881 he was chosen United 
States Senator, and served by re-election 
until his death. General Sewell was a mem- 
ber of the National Republican Conventions 
of 1876, 1880, 1888, 1892, and 1896. At 
the time of his death he was president of 
the Camden & Philadelphia Ferry Co. ; a 
director in the American and Red Star lines 
of steamships, in the Camden Safe Deposit 
& Trust Co. ; in the Farmers & Mechanics 
National Bank of Woodbury, in the Sec- 
ond National Bank of Bridgeton, in the 
Chicago Junction railways, and in the 
Union Stockyards Companies ; a trustee of 
the New York Mutual Life Insurance 
Company: a member of the Union League 
Club of Philadelphia, of the Camden Re- 
publican Club, and of many charitable or- 
ganizations. 

He was twice married. His first wife 
died in 1861, and after the Civil War he 
was married to Helen L. Heyl. He died at 
Camden, New Jersey, December 27, 1901, 
survived by two sons and three daughters. 



CONDIT, Aaron Peck, 

Merchant, Man of Affairs. 

Aaron Peck Condit, late of Madison, 
New Jersey, was born December 17, 1839, 
at Orange, Essex county. New Jersey, son 
of Samuel and Phoebe (Peck) Condit, and 
a lineal descendant of John Cunditt (or 
Condit) who was first of record in this 
country in 1678. The family was in all 
probability of Norman descent, but the an- 
cestor came to this country from Wales. 
They were people of distinction in England, 
even at that early day, and in America the 
family is one of the largest, best known and 
most respected in the country. It has given 
tc the republic statesmen, judges, lawyers. 



73 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



civines and business men of high standing 
in the communities where they have located. 
The main characteristics of these people are 
a sturdy independence, excellent judgment, 
sound common sense, downright integrity 
and adherence to truth and righteousness. 
These characteristics have descended from 
father to son and are as pronounced among 
those bearing the name to-day as they were 
among the earlier generations. 

Aaron Peck Condit was the sixth in lineal 
descent from John Cunditt, the immigrant 
ancestor, the line being as follows : Samuel 
Condit (5), born March 22, 1798, died 
October 22, 1864, and Phoebe Peck, his 
wife, daughter of James Peck. Samuel 
Condit (4), born August 16, 1761, died 
August 31, 1822, and Hannah Harrison, 
his wife, daughter of Ichabod Harrison. 
Daniel Condit (3), born December 27, 1723, 
died November 11, 1785, and Ruth, daugh- 
ter of Gershom Williams. Samuel Condit 
(2), born December 6, 1696, died July 18, 
1777, and Mary Dodd, born November 8, 
1698, died May 25, 1755. Peter Condit 
(i) died in 1714, and Mary, daughter of 
Samuel Harrison. Peter Condit ( i ) or 
Cunditt was a son of the original John Cun- 
ditt. Two of these ancestors were patriot 
soldiers in the Revolution. 

Until he was fifteen years of age Mr. 
Condit attended the public schools of East 
Orange, afterward continuing his studies 
under the tuition of Rev. David H. Pierson, 
a distinguished teacher who for many years 
conducted a seminary at Elizabeth, New Jer- 
sey. Mrs. Pierson was a cousin of Mr. 
Condit. For four years after leaving school 
he remained with his father on the farm, 
but a business life appealed to him and he 
went to Fremont, Ohio, and entered into 
partnership with his brother, Samuel D. 
Condit, carrying on a dry goods business 
under the firm name of Condit Brothers. 
Later, William W. Brant, of Belleville, 
New Jersey, was admitted to the firm and 
shortly after this Mr. Condit returned to 



New Jersey on account of ill health, re- 
taining his connection with the store, how- 
ever, as resident buyer, his brother having 
retired from the business. Mr. Condit was 
also interested in a dry goods business at 
Mansfield, Ohio, under the name of A. P. 
Condit & Company, this store being in 
charge of Captain A. H. Condit, formerly 
of Morristown, New Jersey. In 1875 he 
retired from the dry goods trade and until 
his death, February 11, 1912, was a dealer 
and broker in real estate, in which he was 
rewarded with rare success. 

Mr. Condit was connected with the Re- 
publican party from its organization. For 
eight years he was a member of the Com- 
mon Council of the borough of Florham 
Park, which was a part of Chatham town- 
ship, Morris county, and was also on the 
Republican Committee of that borough. In 
1 881 he transferred his membership to the 
First Presbyterian Church of Madison, where 
he became a faithful attendant. For seven- 
teen years he was a member of the board of 
trustees and part of that time acted as presi- 
dent of that body. He was made a Master 
Mason in Brainard Lodge, No. 336, Fre- 
mont, Ohio, and became a Royal Arch Ma- 
son in Fremont Chapter, No. 64, of Fre- 
mont ; he was made a Knight Templar in 
Toledo Commandery. No. 7, of Toledo, 
Ohio. Mr. Condit also held membership in 
the New Jersey Historical Society, and the 
Sons of the American Revolution of New 
Jersey. 

On December 17, 1861, at Hanover, Mor- 
ris county. New Jersey. Mr. Condit was 
married to Sarah Antoinette Ward, born 
September 2, 1839, daughter of Joseph C. 
and Eliza fCamp) Ward, who survives him 
with the following children : Grace, born- 
October 14, 1862, married Chester C. 
Brown; Henrietta W., born October 15, 
1864; Charles B., born December 21, 1865 r 
two others, Rowland, born in 1868, and 
Mortimer B., born in 1870, died in infancy. 



74 




THOMAS N. McCAR'l'EK. SR. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



McCARTER, Thomas Nesbitt, 

Prominent Laivyer and Jurist. 

Thomas Nesbitt McCarter was for a per- 
iod of more than a half century one of the 
most distinguished members of the legal 
profession in New Jersey, and filled witii 
distinction many highly responsible and im- 
portant offices both by election by the peo- 
ple and by choice of corporations and offi- 
cials. In his college days he became noted 
for his brilliancy in debate, and this gift 
of oratory brought him remarkable success 
in after years. 

Mr. AlcCarter's lineage was of the best. 
His earliest known ancestor, Robert Mc- 
Carter, resided in County Donegal, Ireland, 
and his son John came to Philadelphia 
in 1774, and at once found a prominent 
place in the budding republic. Governor 
Bloomfield appointed him surrogate of Mor- 
ris county, and later a Master in Chancery ; 
subsequently he became clerk of Morris 
county, a position he held until his death in 
1807. This John McCarter was not only 
noted for his honesty and business ability, 
but also for his intellect, as his literary 
ability had been displayed in frequent con- 
tributions to the press both in Ireland and 
America. 

Robert Harris McCarter, son of John 
McCarter, was born March 16, 1793, and 
died March 8, 185 1. He was appointed as- 
sistant to the county clerk, and began the 
study of law so that he was able to receive 
appointment to that position when not quite 
twenty-one years of age. Later he became 
judge of the Court of Common Pleas, and 
a justice of the peace, presiding for a long 
time in Sussex county, and also serving in 
the Court of General Quarter Sessions. Af- 
ter acting as Supreme Court Commissioner, 
in 1840 he was made deputy sheriff. Gov- 
ernor Haines appointed him a member of 
the Court of Errors and Appeals. He was 
a Democrat, and was a delegate to many 
State, congressional and county conven- 
tions of his party, and was a presidential 



elector on the Jackson ticket in 1828. He 
had also a large commercial business, and 
was a director of the Morris Turnpike 
Company. This remarkable instance of con- 
tinued success was repeated in the next 
generation. 

With such an inheritance of the qualities 
which make assured the accomplishment of 
legal work — force of character, scholarly 
instincts, unusual mental capacity, oratorical 
gifts and keenness of wit, the profession of 
his son, Thomas Nesbitt McCarter, was de- 
termined beforehand. He was born Janu- 
ary 31, 1824, in Morristown, New Jersey, 
and died in Newark, January 11, 1901. 
After attending the Newton Academy he 
was prepared for college by the Rev. Clark- 
son Dunn, and entered the junior class of 
Princeton at the age of sixteen. Here he 
was a prominent member of the debating 
society known as the Whig Society, and at 
the same time took high rank as a student. 
In September, 1842, he was graduated with 
honors, was one of the commencement ora- 
tors, and five years later received the de- 
gree of Master of Arts. His study of law 
began in the office of ]\Iartin Ryerson, at 
Newton, New Jersey, and his admission to 
the bar was in October, 1845, as attorney, 
and in the following January as a counsellor. 
From 1845 to 1853 he was a partner of his 
distinguished preceptor, and until the re- 
moval of the latter to Trenton, when Mr. 
McCarter continued practicing independent- 
ly in Newton. Here his industry, integrity 
and peculiar fitness rapidly made for him 
a large practice. The smallest problem 
of litigation was carefully studied, and he 
gave closest attention to the minutest detail 
of every case. He was made collector of 
Sussex county in 1854, and was continued 
in that office for three years. In 1862, by a 
fortunate union of two political parties, he 
was sent to the Assembly, and in that body 
was chairman of the committee on ways 
and means, prepared a new tax law, and 
was in all respects an active and influential 
legislator. 



75 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



In i860, Governor Olden, recognizing Mr. 
McCarter's abilities, tendered him a seat on 
the bench of the Supreme Court, and in 
1866 the offer was renewed by Governor 
Ward. On both occasions he declined the 
honor, preferring to continue in his practice. 
In 1865 he removed to Newark, and met 
with continued success. In 1868 he enter- 
ed into partnership with Oscar Keen, which 
connection continued until 1882. He after- 
ward became senior member of the firm of 
McCarter, Williamson & McCarter, in 
which the junior partners were his sons 
Robert H. and Thomas N.. and his son-in- 
law, Edwin B. Williamson. The leading 
member of the firm possessed such a high 
reputation in both Sussex and Essex coun- 
ties that this soon became known as one 
of the strongest law firms in the State, 
dealing particularly with corporation law. 
Mr. McCarter had a commanding presence, 
dignified, and the personification of nobility 
and justice. His arguments were conducted 
with sound and convincing logic. His deep 
learning, both with regard to jurisprudence 
and literature, his grasp of difficult legal 
questions, and his wit and repartee, were 
almost unequalled in any of the courts of 
the State. 

Before the outbreak of the Civil War, 
Mr. McCarter was nominated as a presi- 
dential elector on the Douglas ticket. The 
following year he i enounced the party, 
whose sentiments as to the war he did not 
approve, and in 1864 he advocated the elec- 
tion of Lincoln. Since that stormy period, 
his sympathies and support were entirely 
g^ven to the Republicans, and he was a pres- 
idential elector on the Hayes and Wheeler 
ticket in 1876. Governor Bedle appointed 
him one of the commissioners to determine 
the boundary between New York and New 
Jersey, other members being Professor 
Cook, of Rutgers College, and Hon. Abram 
Browning, of Camden. He became a di- 
rector of and counsel for the Sussex Rail- 
road Company, while living in Newton, and 
for several years held similar relations with 



the Morris Canal and Banking Company, 
and he was also a director of the Sussex 
bank. Various corporations were glad to 
entrust their legal business to him, among 
them the Lehigh Valley Railroad Company; 
the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Rail- 
road Company, the Morris & Essex Rail- 
road Company, the New Jersey Railroad 
and Transportation Company, the East Jer- 
sey Water Company, the New Jersey Zinc 
and Iron Company. He was also a director 
of the Peoples' Mutual Insurance Company 
of Newark, and the Easton & Amboy Rail- 
road Company. He was a trustee of Evelyn 
College, and also of Princeton College for 
many years. He delivered the annual com- 
mencement address in 1868 before the Whig 
and Clio societies at Princeton, and in 1875 
the institution conferred upon him the hon- 
orary degree of Doctor of Laws. He was 
also an incorporator of the Dickinson Law 
School at Carlisle, Pennsylvania ; fellow of 
the American Geographical Society ; vice- 
president of the Scotch-Irish Society of 
/Vmerica ; and a member of the Washington 
Association of Morristown, New Jersey, 
and the Princeton Club of New York. He 
was an organizer and the only president of 
the old Citizens' Law and Order League of 
Newark. In religious connections he was a 
Presbyterian, and in his nature and life dis- 
played the purest Christian principles. 

He married Mary Louise, daughter of 
Uzal C. Haggerty, of Newton ; she died 
June 28, 1896, five years before her husband 
passed away. Of their six children, Robert 
Harris is a practicing lawyer; Uzal H. is 
a financier, in Newark ; Thomas N. Jr., a 
lawyer, is president of the Public Service 
Corporation. 



STRONG, Woodbridge, 

Member of Prominent Legal Family. 

Judge Woodbridge Strong traced his de- 
scent from several of the earliest settlers 
of the American colonies. Among the di- 
rect ancestors were: John Eliot, the 



76 




WdUlilUaiKiE STKONG 




^Ci/Tj Eii tort cat 



A Sfruc'rzE Oi-^KgtXJ 




CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



"Apostle to the Indians ;"' Governors Dud- 
ley, of Massachusetts ; Leete, of Connecti- 
cut ; and Brenton, of Rhode Island. Elder 
John Strong, the first of the name of 
Strong, came from England in 1630, and 
settled in Dorchester, Massachusetts. From 
him the descent is as follows: (I) Thomas 
Strong married Rachel Holton I second 
wife). (II) Justice Joseph Strong mar- 
ried Sarah Allen. (Ill) Captain Joseph 
Strong married Elizabeth Strong. (IV) 
Rev. Joseph Strong married Jane Gelston. 
(V) Rev. Joseph Strong married Sophia 
Woodbridge. 

(VI) Professor Theodore Strong, son ot 
Rev. Joseph and Sophia (Woodbridge) 
Strong, was born in South Hadley, Massa- 
chusetts, July 26, 1790. He was graduated 
from Yale College in 1812 with the first 
prize in mathematics. He was professor 
of mathematics and natural philosophy at 
Hamilton College from 1816 until 1827, 
and at Rutgers College from 1827 until 
1863, and was one of the most distinguish- 
ed mathematicians in the country. He died 
at New Brunswick, New Jersey, February 
I, 1869. He married, September 23, 181S, 
Lucy, who died November, 1875, daughter 
of Rev. John Dix, of Littleton, Massachu- 
setts. 

(VII) Woodbridge Strong, son of 
Professor Theodore and Lucy (Dix) 
Strong, was bom in Clinton, Oneida coun- 
ty. New York, February 21, 1827. He came 
to New Brunswick, New Jersey, with his 
parents, and has resided there since that 
time. He was christened Benjamin Ruggles 
Woodbridge Strong, but dropped the first 
two names. He entered Rutgers College in 
1847, then commenced the study of law 
with his brother-in-law, Hon. John Van 
Dyke, of New Brunswick, afterward a jus- 
tice of the Supreme Court. During the 
gold fever of 1849 he went to California 
and was one of the first to discover the gold 
in Oregon. Returning to New Jersey in 
1851 he resumed his studies and was ad- 
mitted to the bar in 1852. He was admitted 



as counselor in November, 1872, and was 
judge of ^Middlesex County Court of Com- 
mon Pleas from 1874 to 1879, ^nd again 
from 1896 to 1906. 

He married Harriet A., daughter of Hon. 
Jonathan Hartwell, of Littleton, Massachu- 
setts, and a direct descendant of William 
Hartwell, who settled in Concord, Massa- 
chusetts, in 1636, and of Anthony Dix, who 
came to Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1623. 
Another of her ancestors was John Hart- 
well, who served as a minute-man and was 
a private in the company of Captain Brooks, 
in a Massachusetts regiment. Another an- 
cestor was Seth Walker, who served with 
distinction during the Revolutionary War 
as a captain of marines, and afterward rose 
to the rank of colonel in the militia. Among 
the children of Woodbridge and Harriet A. 
(Hartwell) Strong were two sons who em- 
braced the legal profession — Alan H., grad- 
uate of Rutgers College, solicitor of Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company, etc. ; and Ed- 
ward W., of Cincinnati, Ohio, formerly 
counsel for the Baltimore & Ohio, and other 
railroad companies. 



BRUMLEY, Horace T., 

Financier, Model Citizen. 

In any compilation concerning the life 
histories of those who have lived in Morris 
county. New Jersey, there is signal pro- 
priety in recording a memoir to the late 
Horace T. Brumley, of Hanover township. 
Upon his record in the business world and 
as a man among men, there has never been 
cast the slightest shadow of wrong. His 
father, Joseph Brumley, was a farmer in 
Montville, Connecticut. 

Horace T. Brumley was born in Mont- 
ville, New London county, Connecticut, and 
died in Hanover township, Alorris county, 
New Jersey, April 23, 1910. He was edu- 
cated in the schools of New London, Con- 
necticut, and at the age of sixteen years ob- 
tained a clerkship in the Howard Savings 
Bank of Newark, New Jersey, with which 



77 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



institution his entire business career was 
identified most closely. He was advanced 
consecutively and steadily, until at the time 
of his death he had been for a number of 
years at the head of this institution as its 
president. Throughout his entire business 
career he was looked upon as a model of 
integrity and honor, never making an en- 
gagement or promise whose provisions he 
did not fulfill, and standing as an exempli- 
fication of what may be accomplished by 
determination and resolute force in a man 
of intrinsic ability and strength of char- 
acter — a character dominated by the highest 
principles. He was a director of the Na- 
tional Newark Bank Company, treasurer of 
the Fairmount Cemetery, vice-president of 
the Newark Provident Loan Association, 
and director in the American Insurance 
Company. Politically he was a Republician, 
and he was a member of the Masonic fra- 
ternity. 

Mr. Brumley married, in 1878, Irene, 
born in Newark, daughter of Robert J. and 
Anna Dow Joralemon Baldwin, and they 
had children : Mary C, married Arthur 
Bates Paulmier, of Madison, and has chil- 
dren : Horace Brumley and Arthur Bates 
Jr. ; Joan D., married William O. Cooper, 
now of Maplewood; Helen, married War- 
ren H. Baldwin, of Boonton, and has twins : 
Edward Estle and Irene. 



DIXON, Jonathan, 

Prominent liavyer and Jnrist. 

Jonathan Dixon, who in the course of 
thirty-one years' service as a Justice of the 
Supreme Court of New Jersey attained 
wide and enviable distinction as a jurist 
of exceptional capacity and high honor, was 
a native of Liverpool, England, in which 
city he was born July 6, 1839. He was the 
son of Jonathan and Ann (Morrison) Dix- 
on. The father came to this country in 
1848 and was followed by his family two 
years later, settling in New Brunswick, New 
Jersey. The family was of ancient Eng- 



lish lineage and honorable traditions, its 
descendants figuring conspicuously in vari- 
ous walks of life, both in this country and 
abroad. 

Jonathan Dixon received his education in 
Rutgers College, New Brunswick, New Jer- 
sey, entering that institution as a student in 
1855, and graduating in 1859. The honor- 
ary degree of Doctor of Laws was confer- 
red on him in 1878 by Rutgers College, and 
he was made trustee of that college in 
1886, serving as such for many years. Dur- 
ing his collegiate career he was an inmate 
of the home of Cornelius L. Hardenburg, a 
well-known lawyer, who, having been af- 
flicted by blindness, assumed the education 
of the lad, who in the meantime acted as his 
benefactor's amanuensis and personal at- 
tendant. On the completion of his collegiate 
course the young man took up the study 
of law, for which he had a natural taste and 
marked aptitude, serving as a student-at- 
law in various offices, and at the same time 
finding means of livelihood as a school 
teacher. Admitted as an attorney in 1862, 
he became a counsellor-at-law three years 
later. Immediately after his admission as 
an attorney he removed to Jersey City, New 
Jersey, where he entered the law office of 
E. E. Wakeman, forming a copartnership 
with that gentleman in the spring of 1864. 
This professional relationship continued for 
a year, at the end of which time Mr. Dixon 
established a practice of his own. For five 
years he followed his profession alone, ac- 
quiring a high and enviable reputation as 
;' learned and careful practitioner in whose 
hands the interests of clients were well 
guarded and intelligently represented. He 
then formed a partnership with Gilbert 
Collins, who afterward became a Justice 
of the Supreme Court of New Jersey, an 
honor that fell to Mr. Dixon in 1875, when 
he was appointed to that judicial position 
by Governor Beadle. He acquitted him- 
self of his new responsibilities with a dig- 
nity and strength that left nothing to be 
desired, and in 1882, when his term expired, 



78 




iylr>i.,.'{yj^l^-c>v-i^ -r<v%-^. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



he was reappointed by Governor Ludlow. 
Again, in 1889, he was named by Governor 
Green for the place that he so well and 
honorably filled, and he was subsequently 
reappointed by Governor Griggs and Mur- 
phy in 1896 and 1903 respectively, being still 
on the bench when he died, his term not 
expiring until 1910. At the time of his 
death he filled the circuit comprising Hud- 
son county. As a jurist he possessed those 
qualities of mind and that keen intelligence 
which are essential to the duties of the posi- 
tion ; fair and impartial in his decisions, 
learned in his legal interpretations, and up- 
right as a man, he reflected honor upon the 
bench that he adorned. He was a Republi- 
can in his political convictions, and in 1883 
was his party's nominee for Governor of 
the State, being defeated by Leon Abbet. 

Justice Dixon married Elizabeth M. Price, 
daughter of Henry M. Price, by whom he 
had one son, Warren Dixon, who inherited 
his father's legal talents to a marked de- 
gree and has attained prominence in the 
same profession, winning recognition and 
prestige as one of the leading members of 
the Hudson county bar. He was survived 
also by his widow and eight daughters — 
Mary M., wife of Millard F. Ross; Jessie 
L., wife of Francis J. McCoy; Elsie, wife 
of Lewis E. Carr Jr. ; Bertha, wife of 
James Crowell ; Laura, Helen and Velma 
Dixon, and Elizabeth, wife of Robert C. 
Post, at whose home in Englewood, New 
Jersey, he died. May 21, 1906. 



VROOM, Judge Garret D. W., 

Distinguished Jurist, Litterateur. 

The late Judge Garret Dorset Wall 
Vroom, of New Jersey, copied with dis- 
tinction the virtues and acquirements of his 
forbears, and proved himself worthy to bear 
a name already of such prominence. He 
was a great-grandson of George and Gar- 
retje (Dumont) Vroom; a grandson of 
Colonel Peter D. Vroom, of Revolutionary 
fame, and his wife, Elsie (Bogart) Vroom. 



Colonel Vroom was one of the first to raise 
a company with which he joined the Con- 
tinental army, and he served throughout 
the war, rising to the rank of lieutenant- 
colonel. For a long time he served as a 
member of the New Jersey Assembly and 
Council, and died in 183 1. His son, Gov- 
ernor Peter Dumont Vroom, was born in 
Hillsborough township. New Jersey, De- 
cember 12, 1791, and died in Trenton, New 
Jersey, November 18, 1873. He is written 
of at length on another page of this work. 
He married (first) 1820, Anna, daughter of 
Peter B. Dumont; (second) Matilda M., 
daughter of General Garret D. Wall. Chil- 
dren : Peter Dumont, served with distinc- 
tion in the Civil War, and was retired as 
brigadier-general in 1903 ; and 

Judge Garret Dorset Wall Vroom, who 
was born December 17, 1843, i" Trenton, 
New Jersey, and died in the same city, at 
his home. No. 159 West State street, March 
4, 19 14. When he was about ten years of 
age, his father was appointed Minister to 
Prussia, and during the time the family 
lived in Berlin young Vroom attended the 
French Gymnasia there. L^pon returning 
to Trenton he became a student at the Tren- 
ton Academy, and after a preparatory edu- 
cation there, entered Rutgers College, from 
which he was graduated in the class of 1862. 
He commenced the study of law in the office 
of his father, was admitted to the bar as an 
attorney in 1865, as a counsellor in 1868, 
and later became a special master in chan- 
cery. He established himself in the prac- 
tice of his profession in Trenton, and was 
identified with the interests of that city until 
his death. His ability was of so high an 
order that it immediately won him recog- 
nition. He was elected city solicitor in 1866, 
held the office until 1870, was re-elected in 
1873, and served until 1876. In May. 1870, 
he was appointed Prosecutor of the Pleas 
of Mercer county, to succeed General C. K. 
Hall, deceased, held this office until Decem- 
ber, 1873, when he resigned in order to as- 
sume the duties of Law Reporter of the Su- 



79 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



preme Court of New Jersey, his father hav- 
ing held the office before him, and was an 
incumbent of this until his death. 

His work in the field of literature was in 
some directions of inestimable value. In as- 
sociation with John H. Stewart he prepared 
for publication "The Revision of the Stat- 
utes of New Jersey." This was done in 
1877, under the direction of commissioners, 
and included, with the statutes revised, the 
entire body of the statute laws of the State. 
In 1887 a "Supplement" to the "Revision" 
was issued, in collaboration with Hon. Wil- 
liam L. Lanning. In 1894, both were au- 
thorized to prepare a new revision in three 
volumes, entitled "The General Statutes of 
New Jersey," and includes all laws up to 
January i, 1896. Many other publications 
were also issued under his supervision. 

Judge Vroom served as mayor of the city 
of Trenton from 1881 to 1884, and when the 
city created a Board of Public Works he 
served as president of that body during its 
existence. In 1900 he was appointed to a 
seat on the Supreme Bench by Governor 
Voorhees, but this he declined. When Judge 
Hendrickson was advanced to a seat in the 
Supreme Court, a vacancy was caused in the 
Court of Errors and Appeals, and Governor 
Voorhees appointed Judge Vroom to fill this 
office. He was appointed for a full term of 
six years, February 5, 1901, the nomination 
being confirmed by the Senate seven days 
later. In 1907 he was reappointed to this 
office by Governor Stokes, and continued in 
it until he resigned early in 1914. Wherever 
and whenever there was good and important 
work to be done, Judge Vroom was in de- 
mand. He was for years a member from 
New Jersey of the National Commission to 
Promote the Uniformity of Laws Through- 
out the United States ; president of the Com- 
mission for the Revision of the Statutes for 
many years ; member of the Board of Par- 
dons ; member of the New Jersey Historical 
Society ; president and manager of the Tren- 
ton Savings Fund Society ; president of the 
board of the Trenton School of Industrial 



Arts ; member of the Holland Society of 
New York ; American Bar Association, j 
State Bar Association, Mercer County Bar ' 
Association; president of the board of man- 
agers of the New Jersey State Hospital for 
the Insane ; vice-president of the General 1 
Society of the Sons of the Revolution, was J 
president for some years and was active in 
organizing the New Jersey branch ; an hon- 1 
orary member of the Society of the Cincin- \ 
nati, member of the Delta Phi fraternity, 
and of other organizations. He was the 
senior of the law firm of Vroom, Dickinson 
& Bodine. He was one of the foremost 
lawyers of the State, and while he was ac- 
tively identified with trial cases in the earli- 
er portion of his career, in later years he 
acted mainly as counsel in important cases. 
He was considered an authority in many di- 
rections, especially in precedent, corpora- 
tion and commercial law. Many men who 
later achieved prominence in the legal pro- 
fession studied under Judge Vroom, among 
them being Chancellor Edwin Robert Walk- 
er ; William S. Gummere, Chief Justice of 
the Supreme Court ; Prosecutor Martin E. 
Devlin : William M. Johnson, former State 
Senator and Assistant Postmaster General 
at Washington ; Wallace M. Scudder, editor 
of the "Newark Evening News" ; Nelson L. 
Petty, trust officer with the Trenton Trust 
and Safe Deposit Company; John M. Zis- 
gen, assemblyman, and solicitor of Bergen 
county ; Edward W. Maxwell, at one time 
assistant corporation counsel of New York 
City; Frederick W. Stelle, formerly assist- 
ant corporation counsel of New York City; 
Gouverneur V. Packer ; Counselor Francis 
B. Lee ; the late William R. Piper, who was 
assistant prosecutor ; Anthony S. Brennen ; 
and many others, equally noteworthy. Only 
a short time prior to his death, Judge 
X'room issued the fifty-fifth volume of his 
law reports. 

Judge Vroom was interested in the devel- 
opment of the pottery industry in Trenton, 
and with the late A. M. Maddock was one 
of the pioneers in the establishment of the 



80 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



School of Industrial .Arts there. At his 
home he had a fine collection of rare pottery 
and china. His collection of books made his 
library the finest private one in the city of 
Trenton, and probably in the east. It con- 
tained many volumes of rare merit, not 
alone for their literary contents, but as spec- 
imens of the bookbinder's art. Dickens was 
his especial favorite in the world of fiction, 
and Napoleonic literature also had an espe- 
cial fascination for him. One of his favorite 
forms of recreation was the extra-illustra- 
tion of books, and this held his attention al- 
most to his last hours. Another fine collec- 
tion was his valuable one of manuscript let- 
ters, including autographic letters of each 
signer of the Declaration of Independence, 
and of each President of the United States. 
He was regarded as an expert in handwrit- 
ing, his knowledge in this direction proving 
of great value in legal cases. A great lover 
of nature, he spent considerable time in the 
garden of his Trenton residence, overlook- 
ing the Delaware river, where his fine col- 
lection of roses attracted visitors from far 
and near. He was charitable to a degree, 
but his charities were bestowed in a quiet 
and unostentatious manner. 

Judge Vroom married, in June, 1871, a 
daughter of Philemon Dickinson, of Tren- 
ton, and great-granddaughter of General 
Philemon Dickinson, a member of the Con- 
tinental Congress of New Jersey, and ma- 
jor-general commanding the militia of New 
Jersey during the Revolutionary War. 



WRIGHT, Edwin R. V., 

IiADryer, Congressman. 

It is seldom that one with a great diversi- 
ty of gifts is capable of winning distinction 
in all. An exception is found in the late Ed- 
win R. V. Wright — soldier, journalist and 
legislator, — whose talents were usefully em- 
ployed in all these various callings. 

Edwin R. V. Wright was born January 
2, 1 81 2, in Hoboken, New Jersey, and re- 
ceived an academic education. After leav- 



ing school he took up the trade of printer, 
and in 1835, when he was twenty-three 
years old, he edited and published "The Jer- 
sey Blue." But Mr. Wright's attention was 
called to the law, and he engaged in the 
study of this profession and was admitted 
to the bar in 1839. He took an energetic 
part in the affairs of the community, and 
four years later was elected to the New Jer- 
sey State Senate, an office which he used 
to further his campaign in the cause of edu- 
cation. He was a strong advocate of the 
present system of New Jersey schools, 
which was then under consideration, and he 
brought the full strength of his influence to 
bear for its introduction. In 1851 he was 
appointed District Attorney for Hudson 
county, and held this office for five years. 

Mr. Wright, not content with his liter- 
ary, legal and legislative labors, a sufficient 
task, one would think, for most men, had 
entered the National Guard of New Jer- 
sey, in which service he rose until he became 
and was for several years major-general of 
militia, commanding the Second Division 
of the State Guard. During these active 
years in the service of his fellow citizens. 
General Wright's popularity had been stead- 
ily on the increase, and in 1859 the Demo- 
cratic party chose him as their logical can- 
didate for Governor of the State. General 
Wright accepted the nomination and made 
a vigorous campaign, but was defeated by 
a small majority in the election by Charles 
S. Olden, his Republican opponent. He was 
elected to the United States House of Rep- 
resentatives in the Thirty-ninth Congress, 
serving during his term on the House com- 
mittee on appropriations, and on the special 
committee appointed on the death of Pres- 
ident Lincoln. Mr. Wright's death occur- 
red in Jersey City, on January 19, 1876. 



81 



WARD, Leslie Dodd, M. D., 

Prominent in laife Insurance Affairs. 

Leslie Dodd Ward, son of Moses Dodd 
and Justina Louisa (Sayre) Ward, was 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



born in Afton, Morris county, New Jer- 
sey, July I, 1845. He received his early 
education in the village school at home, 
and then, with the intention of afterwards 
going to Princeton University, entered the 
Newark Academy. In 1863, when General 
Robert E. Lee made his magnificent march 
into Pennsylvania which formed the climax 
of the Confederate success, and created such 
intense and widespread alarm through the 
northern States, the Governor of New Jer- 
sey, in answer to the appeal of the invaded 
State, called for volunteers to go to the aid 
of Pennsylvania. The answer to this call 
was eleven companies of seven hundred 
men and officers. One of the corporals of 
Company F of this regiment, Captain Wil- 
liam J. Roberts commanding, was Leslie 
D. Ward. In the fall of the same year, 
the campaign being ended, young Ward re- 
turned for the completion of his academic 
course. On his graduation in the following 
year he enlisted as one of the hundred-day 
men, being enrolled June 13, 1864, mustered 
in on the 23d of the same month, and being 
mustered out the ensuing October. 

Whether his thoughts had already been 
directed towards a medical career or not 
previously to his military service, it was 
his experience in the camp and field with 
the sick and wounded that finally determin- 
ed him to adopt the life of a physican. 
Consequently, shortly after his return from 
the war, he entered the office of Dr. Fisher, 
of Morristown, where he prepared himself 
to enter the College of Physicians and Sur- 
geons in New York. From this institution 
he graduated in 1868, and immediately be- 
gan practicing in Newark, associating him- 
self with Dr. Lott Southard, of that city, 
with whom he continued to practice for two 
years, at the end of which time he opened 
an office for himself. B3' this time Dr. 
Ward had become well and favorably 
known, and his practice steadily increased 
not only among the rich and well-to-do, but 
also among the less wealthy and poorer 
classes of society. From his experiences 

82 



with these latter classes especially. Dr. Ward 
gained his large insight into the lives of 
people and became familiar with their most 
urgent needs and necessities. The allevia- 
tion of these wants and distresses, and 
the best means of aiding people in sickness 
and times of death, now became one of the 
cherished aims and great problems of his 
life, and he found their realization and 
solution in the idea of the Prudential In- 
surance Company of America, or, as it was 
at first known, the Prudential Friendly So- 
ciety. The object and methods of this 
company were at that time (1873) entirely 
new to the insurance world. It proposed to 
offer insurance to the industrial classes on 
healthy lives, both male and female, from 
one to seventy-five years of age. Policies 
are issued from ten dollars to five hundred 
dollars, and the premiums collected weekly 
at the homes of the insured. A special 
feature of the business and one in which 
Dr. Ward was particularly interested, is 
that all policies are payable at death or 
within twenty-four hours after satisfactory 
proofs of death are furnished to the com- 
pany, in order that the money may be im- 
mediately available for funeral expenses 
and those incurred for medical attendance. 
In ten years the success of the new method 
was phenomenal. It had issued nearly nine 
hundred thousand policies, paid fifteen thou- 
sand claims, amounting to over $875,000, 
and had accumulated a large amount of as- 
sets and a handsome surplus. The original- 
ly subscribed capital of the company, $30,- 
000, had also been increased to $106,000, 
all paid up. In this work, Dr. Ward was 
one of the most active laborers, and the 
present president of the company, John F. 
Dryden, says that it is "largely in conse- 
quence of Dr. Ward's untiring efforts that a 
strong board of directors was secured and 
the necessary financial support obtained 
from men whose standing in the commercial 
world was second to none." From the 
outset. Dr. Ward was the medical director 
of the company and Mr. Dryden's associate 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



in putting it upon a firm foundation. In 
1884 he was elected first vice-president, in 
place of Hon. Henry J. Yates, ex-mayor 
of Newark, who had been elected treasurer. 
As the company's medical director, Dr. 
Ward had from the beginning shown ex- 
ceptional skill and ability in managing the 
field operations of the company, and while 
still occupying his former position he de- 
voted himself as vice-president with 
much energy to the outside devel- 
opment of the company's interests. 
During late years Dr. Ward has 
been the executive manager of the com- 
pany's field force, and Hoffman's "His- 
tory of the Prudential" says that "it is not 
too much to say that much of the success 
which the company has achieved has been 
the result of his exceptional ability and 
devotion to the interests of the company 
and to the promotion of its welfare." In 
1876 Dr. Ward became a member of the 
medical board of St. Michael's Hospital, 
the oldest institution of its kind in Newark, 
and for seven years he was its secretary. 
He was at this time also visiting surgeon 
of St. Barnabas Hospital. Before 1876 the 
duties now performed by the county phy- 
sician of Essex county had for the most 
part been done by coroners and magistrates ; 
but in 1877, by the appointment of Dr. 
Ward to the office of county physician, the 
present state of things was inaugurated. 
Dr. Ward's residence is 1058 Broad street, 
Newark, and his country home is "Brook- 
lake Park," Madison, New Jersey. 

He was a delegate from New Jersey to 
the Republican National Convention in Phil- 
adelphia, June, 1900, and a member of the 
committee notifying Mr. McKinley of his 
nomination for his second term. He was 
also a member of the Chicago convention 
nominating and the committee notifying 
Mr. Roosevelt of his nomination for second 
term, and again delegate to Chicago in 
1908, and one of the vice-presidents of the 
Republican national committee. His clubs 
are the Union League of New York, Essex 



of Newark, Essex County Country Club, 
Tuxedo Club of Tuxedo, Automobile Club 
of America, Whippany River Club of Mor- 
ristown, Morris County Country Golf Club, 
Morristown Club and the Flatbrook Valley 
Club. March 5, 1874, he married Minnie, 
daughter of James Perry, of Newark, and 
has had two children : Leslie Perry Ward, 
and Herbert E. Ward, married Nancy 
Currier. 



BEASLEY, Mercer, 

Jurist of Commanding Ability. 

Of this eminent man, Mr. Cortlandt Park- 
er said: "He was always in fact, I think, 
Chief Justice. He recognized the duties of 
that position and filled them. He guarded 
sedulously pleading and practice. He was 
not disposed to technicality, but he was 
nevertheless mindful of its importance to 
exact justice, and justice in the particular 
case was his great end and aim. He had 
a natural and implacable sense of right, 
but there has never been a judge on our 
bench, perhaps, who was so cold and steel- 
like in his logic and who followed so un- 
swervingly where it led. In my own judg- 
ment, this was the point of danger with 
him. His decisions are models of perspicu- 
ity and terseness and they are always to 
the point." 

Mercer Beasley was born in Philadelphia, 
Pennsylvania, in 181 5, and died February 
19, 1897. His birth occurred while his 
father, the Rev. Frederick Beasley, was 
provost of the University of Pennsylvania. 
In 1830 his father received and accepted 
a call to be rector of St. Michael's Church, 
in Trenton. New Jersey. Mercer Beasley 
had been prepared for college by his father, 
and went to Princeton for a year or two and 
then continued his studies under him in 
Trenton until 1834. In that year he began 
to serve his clerkship in the office of Samuel 
L. Southard, who was then in the United 
States Senate and was engaged also in prac- 
tice in New Jersey. Chancellor Isaac H. 



83 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Williamson had then returned to the bar, 
and Mr. Beasley completed his studies in 
his office. Mr. Beasley received his license 
as attorney at the September term, 1838, 
and was admitted as counselor at the Febru- 
ary term, 1842. 

It is said that for ten years after this he 
did not give much of his time to the study 
or practice of the law except in the trial 
of cases in justices' courts, where, in fact, 
many sharp legal contests were carried on 
in those days. He was fond of shooting, 
and was an excellent marksman on the 
wing, and never lost his skill nor his love 
for the sport. He was a capita! billiard 
player, and greatly enjoyed the game. He 
enjoyed, too, the contests in the justices' 
courts, and they were no bad training school 
for an advocate, but it was not until about 
1849 that Mr. Beasley showed much taste 
for books or inclination for the study of 
law, and then, having made up his mind to 
excel in his profession, he became an in- 
quiring and industrious student, looking 
thoroughly into the legal questions that 
came up in his practice, and devoting ill 
his energies to the work of a lawyer. He 
gathered books of his own and had the use 
of the State Library. He did not cultivate 
an office practice, but saw his clients on the 
street, where they waited for him. He was 
occupied in the daytime with trials in the 
justices' courts and study in the library, 
spending the evenings in his office. His 
office in 1850 was on West State street, 
near Warren, and subsequently he built a 
house in East State street, where he lived 
for the remainder of his days, and his 
office adjoined his house. 

Mr. Beasley ran for mayor, and for the 
Assembly as a Whig, and was defeated. 
He served as city solicitor and president 
of the Common Council. On the death of 
Edward W. Whepley, Mr. Beasley was ap- 
pointed Chief Justice, March 8, 1864, was 
reappointed again and again, and held the 
office until his death. He was forty-nine 
years of age when he went upon the bench. 



and presided there until he was nearly 
eighty-three. The record of his judicial 
decisions is contained in twenty-nine vol- 
umes of the law reports and thirty-seven 
of the cases in equity. He was a man of 
commanding ability, and was easily chief 
among his equals in both the high courts. 
To use the words of Mr. Justice Collins, 
in the Supreme Court, on the day of his 
death : "Presiding over our highest legal 
tribunal with courtly dignity and matchless 
ikill, he added lustre to the bright record 
of his distinguished predecessors." 

In his administrations of the business of 
the Supreme Court he promoted prompt- 
ness and efficiency on the bench and at the 
bar, insisting upon the observance of the 
rules of practice, having always in mind 
the doing of justice in the particular case. 
He was courteous to counsel, and patient 
even with the dullest and the most exasper- 
ating, maintaining the dignity of the pro- 
ceedings and deference to the court. In 
hearing arguments he was quick to grasp 
the essentials of the case, and by penetrat- 
ing questions brought counsel to the point 
to which the argument should be directed. 
In presiding over trials on the Circuit and 
in the Oyer and Terminer, the Chief Justice 
was strong and patient, dignified and courte- 
ous. His charges to the jury were simple 
and clear and directly to the point, and 
these were free from the unusual words 
and the subtlety of reasoning which are 
found in some of his written opinions. He 
retained his powers and kept on with his 
work to the end of his long life, and his 
last opinion in the Supreme Court was an- 
nounced by his associates on the day before 
his death. There is in the Supreme Court 
room in Trenton a very fine portrait of 
Chief Justice Beasley, by J. W. Alexander. 

Mercer Beasley married f first) Miss Hig- 
bie, and 1' second) Miss Havens, both of 
Trenton. By his first wife he had three chil- 
dren — a son, Mercer Beasley Jr., a mem- 
ber of the bar, and later Prosecutor of the 
Pleas of Mercer county ; and two daughters, 



84 




"^ 



■.f^yy.ei'<x^^ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



one of whom became the wife of the late 
Edward T. Green, Judge of the United 
States District Court, and the other the 
wife of William S. Gummere, a Chief Jus- 
tice of New Jersey. Chauncey Havens 
Beasley, of the Essex bar, was a son of his 
second wife. 



PECK, Cyrus, 

Financier, jLeader in Public Improvements. 

For many years a prominent and repre- 
sentative citizen of Essex county, New Jer- 
sey, who was closely identified with import- 
ant financial and other interests of the State, 
it is particularly appropriate that Cyrus 
Peck, late of Roseville, should be accorded 
mention in this work. He was a direct 
descendant of Henry Peck, who emigrated 
from England, and arrived at Boston, Mas- 
sachusetts, in 1637. Later he became one 
of the founders of the New Haven Colony 
Cyrus Peck was of the eighth generation 
of his family in this country. 

Aaron Peck, his father, was born in East 
Orange, New Jersey, March 2, 1798, and 
died there April 8, 1865. He was a hat 
manufacturer in Millburn, New Jersey, and 
was president and principal owner of the 
Sussex railroad, now a branch of the Del- 
aware, Lackawanna & Western railroad. 
He was a member of the Essex County Mi- 
litia from 1819 to 1825, holding rank as 
captain of the Fourth District Company, 
First Battalion. Fifth Regiment. In 1838 
Governor William Pennington appointed 
him a Master in Chancery. He married 
Miranda Pierson. 

Cyrus Peck was born in East Orange, 
New Jersey, November i, 1829, and died at 
his home in Roseville, May 6, 1907. On 
the completion of his education, which was 
a liberal one, he entered the wholesale boot 
and shoe house of J. H. Ransom & Com- 
pany, of New York, remaining with them 
six years. On the organization of the New 
Jersey Express Company, about 1854, Mr. 
Peck became its treasurer. (This company 



was later merged with the Adams Express 
Company). In 1857 he entered the Conti- 
nental Insurance Company, of New York, 
with which he was connected for more than 
forty years, occupying successively the of- 
fices of secretary, second vice-president, 
vice-president and treasurer. He was one 
of the organizers of the City Trust 
Company of Newark in 1901, and was in 
office as its president until the time of his 
death. For a considerable time he had 
been vice-president of the Newark Board 
of Trade, and his services in this connection 
were highly appreciated and of inestimable 
value. Mr. Peck became a resident of Rose- 
ville, now known as the Eleventh Ward of 
Newark in 1854, and in 1857, when the 
ward was created, he was elected its first 
representative in the Board of Education, 
and served two successive terms in this of- 
fice. In 1892 he was one of the leading 
spirits in the Citizen's Committee which se- 
cured in 1894 the passage of the legislation 
resulting in the establishment of the Park 
System of Essex county. In 1897 he joined 
with other heirs of Aaron Peck in present- 
ing to Essex county a valuable tract of 
land, now a part of the middle division of 
the Branch Brook Park. In the same year 
the Hon. David A. Depue, justice of the 
Supreme Court of New Jersey, appointed 
Mr. Peck as the first president of the Essex 
County Park Board, an office he held twelve 
years. He was one of the incorporators of 
the Roseville Presbyterian Church in 1853. 
serving as president of the board of trustee.^ 
until 1883, and from that time until his 
death as elder. His connections with other 
organizations were: Vice-president of the 
Newark Board of Trade, as mentioned 
above ; member of the New England So- 
ciety of Orange, New Jersey ; trustee of 
the New Jersey Historical Society, and 
a life member of this body : trustee of 
the Washington Headquarters Associa- 
tion of New Jersey, at Morristown; mem- 
ber of the Society of the Sons of the 
American Reyolution ; member and treas- 



85 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



iirer of the Committee of Presbyterial 
Church Extension in the Presbytery of 
Newark. 

Mr. Peck on January 27, 1853, mar- 
)ied Mary Picton Halsey, daughter of Rev. 
John Taylor Halsey, one of the most prom- 
inent educators of his time ; granddaughter 
of Captain Luther Halsey, of the Revolu- 
tionary forces, and a descendant of Thomas 
Halsey, one of the founders of Southamp- 
ton, Long Island, in 1640. Their children 
were : Helen Oakley, Edward Halsey, Wil- 
liam Halsey, Edith Mary and Cyrus Cur- 
tis, who died in infancy. The life of Mr. 
Peck was a quiet, modest and un- 
assuming one. His prominence was 
due to the possession of those ster- 
ling qualities which everywhere com- 
mand respect — honesty in business affairs, 
justice in public life, an unfailing courtesy 
in social circles, and a record that must ever 
be a source of pride and satisfaction to his 
descendants. Entirely free from ostenta- 
tion, without self-seeking, he was a true 
American citizen, loyal to his country, his 
church and his friends. 

On the 24th of May, 1914, a memorial 
window of great beauty entitled "Easter 
Morn" was dedicated in the Roseville Pres- 
byterian Church to the memory of Mr. and 
Mr_. Peck, who were charter members of 
this church. It was designed and executed 
by the Tilifany Studios of New York, after 
the famous picture of Axel Ender in the 
Parish Church at Molde, Norway. 



WHITEHEAD, John, 

Laxpyer, Iiitteratenr. 

John Whitehead was not a native of 
New Jersey, but that State was the scene of 
all his activities. Born in Jersey, Licking 
county, Ohio, September 6, 1819, he was 
in early life deprived by death of a father's 
care, and his boyhood years were passed in 
the home of his uncle, Hon. Asa Whitehead, 
a leading member of the bar, practicing in 
Newark. After receiving a thorough acad- 



emical education, he became a law student 
in the office of his uncle, and was admitted 
to the bar in September, 1840. He at once 
engaged in practice, in association with his 
uncle, remaining until 1843, when he open- 
ed an office for himself. In 1856 he was 
appointed a United States Commissioner 
for the District of New Jersey, and in this 
capacity it became his duty to investigate 
complaints of the violation of Federal 
statutes, and his patience and breadth of 
legal knowledge made him a most admir- 
able committing magistrate. 

During his long practice, Mr. Whitehead 
never sought political or other honors out- 
side his profession, the only temptation to 
which he yielded being the indulgence of 
his literary tastes. He had a strong sym- 
pathy for the colored race, although never 
a pronounced abolitionist, and took great 
interest in furthering efforts to obtain their 
freedom. His lectures on history and philo- 
logy evinced deep research and great fa- 
miliarity with those subjects, and he made 
valuable contributions to the legal litera- 
ture of the State. His "Judicial and Civil 
History of New Jersey" (1897) was a most 
valuable work, and has a lasting value. The 
cause of education always found in him an 
earnest advocate. He was a member of 
the Public School Committee of Newark 
as early as 1845, its early meetings being 
held in his private office. In 1851, after 
the legislature had enlarged its powers as 
the Board of Education, its meetings were 
still held at the same place, Mr. Whitehead 
being secretary and treasurer until 1855. 
The people of Clinton township, of which 
he then became a resident, immediately 
availed themselves of his devotion to the 
cause of education, by selecting him for 
their school superintendent, which position 
he held for four years. He was for a long 
time secretary of the State Society of 
Teachers and Friends of Education, and in 
its interest spent much of his leisure time 
visiting different parts of the State, endeav- 
oring to arouse the people to a realization of 



86 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



the importance of furnishing their children 
with better educational advantages. He was 
also a prominent member of the American 
Association for the Advancement of Educa- 
tion, composed of the most distinguished 
educators and men of learning in the coun- 
try. When it was decreed by an Act of the 
Legislature that school examiners should be 
appointed in the different counties of the 
State, Mr. Whitehead was selected for Es- 
sex county, holding that office until the act 
was repealed. 

Mr. Whitehead removed in 1861 to Mor- 
ristown, which was thereafter his place of 
residence until his death. There, after 
years of unflagging zeal and patient labor, 
he had the satisfaction of seeing the Mor- 
ristown Library opened to the public, on 
August 14, 1876 — an institution which at 
once entered upon a constant development, 
to the great advantage of the community. 
With indomitable perseverance he watched 
over its growth, advancing its interests in 
countless ways, and all of its thousands of 
books collected during his administration, 
were selected under his immediate supervi- 
sion. His enthusiasm in this work was 
unbounded. It would doubtless have been 
the great sorrow of his life had he lived 
to witness the burning of the Library (Feb- 
ruary 2},, 1914), and the total loss of its 
more than thirty thousand volumes and its 
great collection of historical papers and 
records reaching back to the colonial and 
revolutionary periods. The pecuniary loss 
was large (about $75,000 covered measur- 
ably well by insurance), but the value of 
the papers and records is not to be measur- 
ed in terms of monetary value. Mr. White- 
head was president of the Library corpor- 
ation at the time of his death. 

In 1891 Mr. Whitehead was chosen pres- 
ident of the New Jersey Society of the 
Sons of the American Revolution, founded 
in 1889, an outgrowth of the patriotic senti- 
ment engendered by the centennial celebra- 
tion of the inauguration of Washington as 
the chief executive of the nation. During 

87 



the successive years that he held that posi- 
tion Mr. Whitehead's genial social quali- 
ties and enthusiastic patriotism were largely 
instrumental in increasing the membership 
of the society. In 1893 he was elected one 
of the vice-presidents of the national so- 
ciety. He was an elder of the First Pres- 
byterian Church, of Morristown, and gave 
much service in teaching in the Sunday 
school. He was familiarly called "Judge," 
through his long and active service as a 
L^nited States Commissioner. He died 
February 14, 1905. 

Mr. Whitehead married, in 1843, Kath- 
arine A., daughter of David Mills: she 
was a beautiful and accomplished woman. 
They left one daughter, Katharine A. 
Whitehead. 

At a meeting of the directors of The 
Morristown Library and Lyceum, held 
February 17, 1905, a minute, prepared by 
Alfred Mills Esq., and reported by Messrs. 
Alfred Mills, John E. Taylor and Henry C. 
Pitney Jr., committee, was adopted and re- 
corded, and from which the following ex- 
tracts are taken : 

He established his office in Newark, and con- 
tinued the practice of law there up to the time 
of his death. He won an enviable position in his 
profession, being a learned lawyer, a wise coun- 
selor and an earnest advocate. He was verv fond 
of general literature, and was an historian by in- 
stinct. New Jersey is much indebted to him for 
the valuable historical and biographical books 
which he has written and published. A clear and 
graceful writer, he wrote and published many 
meritorious articles and letters upon subjects 
interest to all intelligent citizens. To the ? 
vancement of public education he gave much 
time and work. He loved books, as we all know. 
A good library was an elysium to him. 

In 1861, Mr. Whitehead removed his family 
residence from Newark to Morristown and be- 
came one of the best known and highly esteemed 
citizens of this place. He soon became much in- 
terested in the work of starting a public library 
in Morristown. He drew an act for the incorpor- 
ation of "The Morristown Library and Lyceum," 
which was passed by the legislature of our State 
and approved on the 6th of March, 1866. The 
preamble of the charter refers to the fact that an 
association had been formed in Morristown, "hav- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ing in view the establishment of a public library, 
with rooms for reading and other literary pur- 
poses, and the erection or purchase of a suitable 
edifice for the objects of such association, so as 
to promote the education of the young and other 
persons who may desire to be benefitted thereby, 
in science, literature and the arts." In the first 
section of the charter, Mr. Whitehead is named as 
one of the commissioners to receive subscriptions 
to the capital stock of said association. This pro- 
ject was a novel one in Morristown. Mr. White- 
head was most earnest and persistent in his ef- 
forts to arouse public interest in and popular de- 
mand for such an institution. By writing and 
publishing articles in the newspapers, by addresses 
at such meetings at which a subject of this nature 
could be properly considered, and by personal ap- 
peals to individuals, he succeeded in arousing the 
interest of our community in the proposed insti- 
tution. He did far more than all others put to- 
gether in bringing about this result. Mr. White- 
head was foremost in the strenuous and persistent 
eflforts that resulted in the erection and comple- 
tion of our building on South Street, and in its 
opening for public use in the month of August, 
1878. 

He succeeded, in the office of president, Mr. 
William L. King, who died in 1897, and was most 
efficient in selecting and securing the large and 
valuable library which we now have. We shall 
greatly miss him and his intelligent and efficient 
work. 



RICORD, Frederick William, 

Educator, Litterateur, Public Official. 

Frederick William Ricord, son of Jean 
Baptiste Ricord and Elizabeth (Stryker) 
Ricord, was born in Guadeloupe, West 
Indies, October 7, 1819. and died in New- 
ark, New Jersey, August 13, 1897. 

He represented several lines of descent, 
including the Holland Dutch of his mater- 
nal grandfather, whose family settled in 
New Amsterdam in 1652, where Jan Stry- 
ker, of Ruiven, the first bearer of the name 
to come to America, was a man of no little 
importance, and later was the founder of a 
Dutch colony on Long Island, the modern 
name of which is Flatbush. Jan Stryker 
was its first chief magistrate and served as 
such for twenty years. This family was 
one both ancient and honorable in Holland. 



Of its pedigree, fourteen descents are given 
in Holland down to 179 1. Of the French 
line of Mr. Ricord's ancestry, it may be 
said to include Huguenot and Girondist 
blood, the French Revolution being chiefly 
responsible for his emigration to America, 
his grandfather Ricord having fled to this 
country in 1793 to escape, with his young 
wife and little children, the horrors of that 
terrible era. 

Jean Baptiste, father of Mr. Ricord, bore 
the family title of Madianna, which belong- 
ed to him as the eldest son. He graduated 
from the College of Physicians and Sur- 
geons of New York, and practiced medicine 
in this country and in his home in the 
West Indies. He was the author of several 
valuable scientific works. 

Mrs. Elizabeth Ricord, wife of Dr. 
Ricord, was a pioneer in the higher educa- 
tion of women, the friend and associate of 
Mary Lyman, Emma Willard and other 
early educators. Bereft of husband and left 
with four sons to educate, she returned 
from the West Indies to the United States 
to give to her boys the advantages of a 
Christian land and civilization. In that day 
it was not customary for women to face 
the world as now may be done, without 
call for special eflfort and courage. Delicate- 
ly reared, the daughter of a clergyman 
(Rev. Peter Stryker), accustomed through- 
out married life abroad to the dependent 
life of a large slaveholder, Mrs. Ricord 
came to America to fight her way, with an 
entire change of environment. At once she 
decided upon the life of a teacher as that 
which, while supporting herself, would also 
be helpful to others. To this end she 
opened a school in Woodbridge, New Jer- 
sey, where her youngest son died. As her 
worldly means increased, she was enabled 
to realize in larger degree the idea which 
had long been uppermost in her mind in 
relation to her labors as a teacher — that of 
establishing a school where young women 
might have educational advantages greater 
than any afforded by the schools of her 



88 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



girlhood. To this end she opened in 
Geneva, New York, in 1829, her seminary 
for young women, in which institution an 
education was made possible for women that 
was equal to the higher schools for young 
men. She was eminently successful in her 
undertaking ; her seminary took first rank, 
and its pupils were numbered by hundreds 
during the many years of its existence. 

As an immediate result of her undertak- 
ing, Mrs. Ricord was enabled to send her 
three remaining sons through college, and 
give two of them professional training, one 
as a lawyer, the other as a physician. 

Frederick William, the youngest son, 
entered Hobart College and matriculated 
at Rutgers College, completed a law course, 
and was admitted to the bar of the State of 
New York. He did not follow the law, how- 
ever, but, having married, located in New- 
ark, New Jersey, and occupied his time with 
literary pursuits, as a writer for magazines 
and newspapers, and finally as an author. 
As a public officer he was above bribe or 
corruption ; jealous in his adherence to right, 
no man could make of him a tool. Through 
his action hundreds of thousands of dollars 
were saved to the city and to its inhabitants 
as individuals. As State Superintendent of 
Public Schools, he did much to systematize 
the educational affairs of the common- 
wealth. During the seventeen years of his 
connection with the Board of Education 
of Newark he also performed invaluable 
work. Although offered chairs in many 
well known colleges and universities, he 
preferred to remain in the city of his choice, 
and accepted none of the proffered posi- 
tions, although he was not insensible to 
the honors within his reach. Nor would 
he ever accept a seat in the Legislature of 
his State or that of the nation, though both 
were offered to him. 

From boyhood, Mr. Ricord belonged to 
the church of his Holland ancestors, but 
was for the last forty years of his life a 

89 



Presbyterian. For many years he was su- 
perintendent of one of the first Sunday 
schools for colored children in the city. 

During the fifty-four years of his resi- 
dence in Newark, Mr. Ricord occupied the 
various positions and offices of librarian of 
the Newark Library Association, president 
of the Board of Education, State Superin- 
tendent of Public Schools, sheriff of Essex 
county, mayor of the city of Newark, judge 
of various courts, and librarian and treas- 
urer of the New Jersey Historical Society. 
He was a member and master of St. John's 
Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, and 
connected with many literary and educa- 
tional bodies both in his own and other 
States. He was the author of many works, 
and translator of many more. His "Youths' 
Grammar" and "History of Rome" were 
for many years leading textbooks in the 
schools of the land. He was emphatically 
a linguist, being master of fourteen langu- 
ages and dialects, and during his long life 
of literary work was editor of various mag- 
azines, papers and historical and biogra- 
phical works. His political life was with- 
out stain. In his social life he was known 
and loved as a man of pure life and noble 
thought, of warm heart and courteous bear- 
ing, a man to whom the pomps and vanities 
of life had little value, and the approval of 
his conscience was his best reward. He was 
a tireless worker and a man of rare simplic- 
ity of character. Of the possessions and 
treasures of a long life, none were so dear 
to this man of unworldly thought, as the 
f'-icndships he made and held as the best 
gifts of the God he worshipped. 

Mr. Ricord married, in 1843, Sophia, 
daurjhter of William Bradley, whose family 
represented one of the best of New Eng- 
land. Upon her mother's side she was a 
descendant of Governor William Bradford, 
of the Plymouth colony, and also of Gov- 
ernor John Webster , of the Connecticut 
Colony. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



STOCKTON, John P., 

Laivyer, Diplomat, Statesman. 

John Potter Stockton, lawyer and states- 
man, was a member of the family of that 
name which need yield to none in its claim 
u])On the gratitude of New Jersey, or in 
the record of the services it has rendered 
to the State which has so long been its 
home. Richard Stockton, the elder, the 
ardent patriot, the staunch opponent of 
British oppression in colonial days and final- 
ly Signer of the immortal Declaration, was 
his great-grandfather, nor were the inter- 
mediate generations less distinguished. His 
grandfather was the eminent jurist and 
statesman, Richard Stockton, the younger, 
whose career and personality has done so 
much for the traditions of the New Jersey 
bar ; and his father, Robert Field Stockton, 
the gallant commodore and prudent states- 
man. John P. Stockton thus represented 
the fourth generation in direct descent 
which contributed to the fair name of New 
Jersey, and the third which served her in 
the senatorial capacity. 

John P. Stockton was born in Princeton, 
New Jersey, in the old Stockton home, Au- 
gust 2, 1826. After a superior preparatory 
course he became a student at Princeton 
College, from which he was graduated in 
1843. -Adopting the law, he passed through 
the usual preparation, and was admitted to 
the bar in 1846, and three years later he 
was called to the bar as a counsellor. He 
very speedily attained a high position in his 
profession, and in connection therewith re- 
ceived some high trusts, being appointed a 
member of the commission for the Revision 
of the Laws of New Jersey, and subsequent- 
ly reporter to the Court of Chancery, and 
during his occupancy of this office he pub- 
lished the three valuable volumes of "Equi- 
ty Reports," which bear his name. He was 
engaged in a number of the leading cases 
then before the courts, and was counsel 
for the Pennsylvania Railroad Company in 
the long and intricate litigation rendered 



necessary by assaults upon the privileges 
acquired by it from the corporations known 
as the United Railroads of New Jersey. 
This litigation absorbed an extraordinary 
attention, and forms the greatest railroad 
war in the annals of the State. Politically 
a Democrat, inheriting his principles from 
a long line of ancestors, he took an active 
and conspicuous part in politics. In 1858 
President Buchanan appointed him minister 
to Rome, and he removed to that city, 
where he remained until 1861, when he 
was recalled at his own request. In 1865 
he was elected to the United States Senate 
for the term ending in 1871. A contest, 
however, arose, and after he had occupied 
the seat for rather more than a year, his 
election was declared by the Senate to have 
been informal. He was accordingly un- 
seated, and thereupon returned home to 
prosecute his profession. In 1868 he was 
again elected to the United States Senate, 
as the successor of Hon. Frederick T. Frel- 
inghuysen, and took his seat on March 4, 
1869, and on the expiration of his term, in 
March, 1875, he resumed the active practice 
of his profession. During his term as Sen- 
ator he served on the Senate committees on 
foreign affairs, navy, appropriation, patents 
p.nd public buildings. In 1877 he was made 
Attorney-General of New Jersey, an office 
he held until 1892. A Democrat in politics, 
he was a delegate to every national conven- 
tion of his party from 1864 until his death. 
In 1882 Princeton College conferred upon 
him the honorary degree of LL.D. Toward 
the end of his life lie retired somewhat 
from public life, and his death occurred 
January 22, iQoo, in New York City. 



ROBESON, George M., 

Cabinet Officer, National Legislator. 

George Maxwell Robeson was bom at 
Oxford Furnace, New Jersey, in 1827, son 
of William P. and Anna (Maxwell) Robe- 
son, and a descendant of Andrew Robeson, 
of Scotland, who was Surveyor-General of 



90 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



New Jersey in 1668. Andrew Robeson 
was a graduate of Oxford University, and 
his son Jonathan for that reason gave the 
name of Oxford Furnace to the site where 
in 1741 he planted the first iron furnace in 
Morris county, New Jersey, near Belvidere. 

He received an academic education, and 
was then sent to Princeton College, where 
he was graduated in 1847. He studied law 
with Chief Justice Hornblower at Newark, 
and was admitted to the bar in 1850, prac- 
ticed at Newark, and afterward at Camden, 
and in 1858 was appointed Prosecutor of 
the Pleas of Camden county. At the out- 
break of the Civil War, Mr. Robeson was 
very active in organizing the State troops 
of New Jersey, and he was commissioned 
brigadier-general. In 1867 he was appoint- 
ed Attorney-General of New Jersey, and 
served until June 2J. 1869, when he resign- 
ed, in order to accept the position of Secre- 
tary of the Navy, to which he had been 
appointed by President Grant. He remain- 
ed in this position until the expiration of 
President Grant's second term, in 1877. 
During this period he for a short time dis- 
charged also the duties of Secretary of War, 
following the resignation of General Wil- 
liam W. Belknap. His official conduct as 
Secretary of the Navy was the subject of 
congressional investigation in 1876 and 
1878, but in both cases the judiciary com- 
mittee of the House found that the charges 
against him were not sustained. After leav- 
ing the cabinet he resumed the practice of 
law in Camden, New Jersey. He was elect- 
ed to the Forty-sixth Congress as a Repub- 
lican, receiving nearly as many votes as the 
Democratic and Greenback candidates to- 
gether, was re-elected to the Forty-seventh 
Congress, and in 1882 was a candidate for 
re-election, but was defeated. 

He married, in 1872, Mary Isabella (Ogs- 
ton) Aulick, a widow, with a son, Rich- 
mond Aulick. They had one daughter, 
Ethel Maxwell. Mr. Robeson died in Tren- 
ton, September 27, 1897. 



LUDLOW, George C, 

Laivyer, Legislator, GoTernor. 

George C. Ludlow, twenty-eighth Gov- 
ernor of New Jersey (1881-84), was born 
in Milford, Hunterdon county. New Jersey, 
April 6, 1830. He received his early educa- 
tion in the schools of his vicinity, entered 
Rutgers College at the age of sixteen, and 
was graduated in the class of 1850. He 
then commenced the study of law, was ad- 
mitted to the bar three years later, and 
engaged in practice at New Brunswick, 
New Jersey. He soon established a reputa- 
tion in his profession, and won the con- 
fidence and esteem of all who came in con- 
tact with him by his undoubted integrity 
and devotion to the interests of his clients. 
Always an intense Democrat, he was wont 
to take a conspicuous part in politics, but 
never held office until 1876, when he was 
elected to the State Senate. During his 
term of membership he served on some of 
the most important committees, and through- 
out one session occupied the president's 
chair. He declined a renomination. In 1880 
he became the Democratic nominee for the 
governorship of his native State, was elect- 
ed the same year, and came into office Janu- 
ary 18, 1881. His term expired January 
21, 1884. He died December 18, 1900. 



GREEN, Robert Stockton, 

Iiairyer, Jurist, Governor. 

Robert Stockton Green, who served as 
Governor of New Jersey from 1886 to 
1890. was a representative of a family of 
prominence, a family conspicuous for its 
men of sterling probity and integrity, ac- 
tive and public-spirited, numbering among 
them the Rev. Jacob Green, the Revolu- 
tionary patriot, who was his great-grand- 
father. His grandfather was the Rev. Ash- 
bel Green, born 1762, died 1848; and his 
father, James Sproat Green, was United 
States District Attorney for New Jersey 



91 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



and professor of law in the College of New 
Jersey. James S. Green married Isabella 
McCulloh. 

Robert Stockton Green was born in 
Princeton, New Jersey, Alarch 25, 1831, 
and died in Elizabeth, New Jersey, May 7, 
1895. After a preliminary training, he be- 
came a student at Nassau Hall, from which 
he graduated in 1850. Choosing the profes- 
sion of the law, he was after the usual 
course of study admitted to the bar in 1853, 
and became a counsellor in 1856. While 
residing in Princeton he took an active in- 
terest in its affairs, and in 1852 served as a 
member of its council. He removed to 
Elizabeth, New Jersey, in 1856. and im- 
mediately became interested in the move- 
ment for the creation of Union county, and 
he was largely instrumental in the passage 
of the act of 1857 by which it was ac- 
complished, and which designated Elizabeth 
as the county seat. In 1857 he was ap- 
pointed prosecutor of the borough courts 
by Governor Newell, and in the following 
year became the city attorney of Elizabeth, 
a position he continued to fill with marked 
ability for ten years. At the expiration 
of this period he was elected to the city 
council, and served therein by successive 
elections from 1868 to 1873. He had been 
elected surrogate of Union county in 1862, 
and appointed presiding judge of the Court 
of Common Pleas and county courts in 
1868. During the succeeding year he was 
appointed by Governor Randolph to the 
Commercial Convention at Louisville as a 
representative of New Jersey. In 1873 ^^^ 
was appointed by Governor Parker, and the 
nomination received the confirmation of the 
Senate, one of the commissioners to suggest 
amendments to the constitution of the State. 
In this commission he served as chairman 
of the committees on bills of rights, rights 
of suffrage, limitation of power of govern- 
ment, and general and special legislation. 
The amendments suggested were substan- 
tially adopted by the two succeeding legis- 
latures and ratified by the people at the 



general election of 1875. He represented 
the Democratic party as delegate to the 
National conventions of i860, 1880 and 
1888; was a representative in the Forty- 
ninth Congress, 1885-87; Governor of New 
Jersey, 1886-90; Vice-Chancellor of the 
State, 1890-95 ; and Judge of the Court of 
Errors and Appeals, 1894-95. 

In his professional capacity he was con- 
nected with some of the most important 
movements in the State of New Jersey. 
Of these the most notable, because of its 
almost revolutionary and far-reaching char- 
acter, may be mentioned the enterprise de- 
signed to deliver the people of the common- 
wealth from the monopoly long enjoyed by 
the Camden & Amboy Railroad Company 
and its successors, the Pennsylvania Rail- 
road Company. An organization was ef- 
fected, known as the National Railway 
Company, having for its object the con- 
struction of a second railroad between the 
cities of Philadelphia and New York. At 
every step the new enterprise was met with 
opposition and litigation by its established 
rival. This opposition and litigation cul- 
minated in 1872 in the celebrated case be- 
fore the Chancellor's Court in Trenton. In 
this suit, which was brought by the Penn- 
sylvania Railroad Company, as lessees of 
the franchises and road of the Camden & 
Amboy Railroad, against the National Rail- 
way Company, to restrain it from operating 
a through line from New York to Phila- 
delphia, under several charters which were 
to be used as connecting links of the route, 
Mr. Green acted as attorney for the defend- 
ants. This litigation led in the succeeding 
winter, to the fierce contest in the legisla- 
ture between the railroad companies and 
the advocates of free railroads. Bill after 
bill granting the rights sought by the promo- 
ters of the new enterprise passed the House 
of Assembly, only to be killed or smothered 
in the Senate. The Assembly had early in 
the session passed a bill, introduced by Mr. 
Canfield, of Morris, creating a general rail- 
road law. This measure had gone to the 



92 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Senate, and been there amended by the 
striking out of all after the enacting clause, 
and the insertion of a bill that would have 
been practically useless. On the return of 
this amended bill to the House, in the last 
days of the session, it .was referred to a 
committee, consisting of Messrs. Worthing- 
ton, Canfield, Lestom, Willets, and Schenck, 
who, with Messrs. Cortlandt Parker, Green, 
Attorney-General Gilchrist, and B. W. 
Throckmorton, prepared and perfected a 
measure which was the next day reported to 
the House by the committee as a substitute 
for the Senate's amendment. The Assem- 
bly passed it, and, after some small altera- 
tions made by a committee of conference, 
it eventually passed both Houses ; was sign- 
ed by Governor Parker, and became a law. 
Railroad monopoly privileges which had 
been enjoyed under the decision in the case 
of the Camden & Amboy Railroad Com- 
pany and the Delaware and Raritan Bay 
Company, even after the companies had 
relinquished their rights to exclusive privi- 
leges, were by this law destroyed, and un- 
der it the Delaware & Bound Brook Rail- 
road was built on the route and partially 
finished road-bed of the National Railway 
Company, and in connection with the New 
Jersey Central and North Pennsylvania rail- 
roads formed a continuous and through line 
from New York to Philadelphia. With the 
opening of this road was consummated the 
release of New Jersey from one of the most 
oppressive monopolies known to the history 
of this country, and to Mr. Green the com- 
munity is indebted in no small degree for 
its deliverance. His great ability and tire- 
less care in working up the intricate points 
of the preliminary litigation, and in shap- 
ing the subsequent legislation, conduced 
conspicuously to the final triumph of popu- 
lar rights. 

Mr. Green became a member of the bar 
of New York in January, 1874, as a partner 
in the firm of Brown, Hall & Vanderpoel, 
which afterwards, by changes in its per- 
sonnel, became that of Vanderpoel, Green 



& Cuming. The College of New Jersey 
gave him the honorary degree of LL.D. in 
1887. He was a member of the New Jer- 
sey Society of the Cincinnati ; president of 
the State Society; member of the Sons of 
the American Revolution, 1888, and a vice- 
president general of the National Society. 



KILPATRICK, Gen. Hugh Judson, 

Dashing Cavalry Officer, Diplomat. 

General Hugh Judson Kilpatrick, un- 
doubtedly one of the most daring and bril- 
liant cavalry leaders of the Civil War per- 
iod, was born near Deckertown, New Jer- 
sey, January 14, 1836. 

He was graduated from the Military 
Academy at West Point in 1861, and on 
May 14 of that year was commissioned a 
lieutenant of artillery. He participated in 
the battle of Big Bethel, in the following 
month. In August he was commissioned 
lieutenant-colonel of a New York cavalry 
regiment which he had assisted in recruiting 
and organizing. In January, 1862, he set 
out for Kansas, to serve as chief of artil- 
lery of General James H. Lane's forces, 
intended for service in Texas. This expedi- 
tion, however, was abandoned, and Kilpat- 
rick rejoined his regiment in Virginia, and 
was in the action at Thoroughfare Gap, and 
the second battle of Bull Run. On June 13, 
1863, he was promoted to brigadier-gen- 
eral of volunteers, took part in the battles 
of Aldie and Gettysburg, and for gallantry 
in the latter two engagements was brevetted 
lieutenant-colonel in the regular army. He 
took an active part in the operations in 
Virginia from .'Vugust until November, 1863, 
and in the affairs at James City, Brandy 
Station and Gainesville. In May, 1864, he 
was sent west and assigned to the command 
of a cavalry division in the Army of the 
Cumberland, then entering upon the Georgia 
campaign. He was severely wounded in 
the battle of Resaca, Georgia, May 13th, 
and was obliged to retire from service for 
two months. He returned to the field with 



Q.'^ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



undiminished zeal and energy, and in the 
middle of August passed around the ene- 
my's lines at Atlanta, destroying consider- 
able railroad, and returning with a number 
of prisoners, and various trophies of war. 
He commanded all of General Sherman's 
cavalry forces during the famous "March 
to the Sea" and in the campaign of the 
Carolinas, especially distinguished himself 
at Fayetteville, North Carolina. He was 
brevetted colonel in the regular army for 
gallant conduct at Resaca, brigadier-general 
for the capture of Fayetteville, North Caro- 
lina, and major-general for meritorious ser- 
vices in the Carolina campaign. On June 
i8, 1865, he was promoted to major-general 
of volunteers. On January i, 1866, he 
resigned his volunteer commission, and in 
the following year left the regular army. 

General Kilpatrick was Minister to Chili 
from 1865 to 1868. In the presidential 
campaign of 1872 he supported Greeley. He 
returned to the Republican party in 1876, 
and in 1880 was an unsuccessful candidate 
for Congress from New Jersey. In i88t 
he was appointed by President Garfield to 
the post of Minister to Chili, and his death 
occurred at Valparaiso on December 4th of 
the same vear. 



DRYDEN. John Fairfield, 

Founder of Prudential Insurance Company. 

One of the foremost men the insurance 
world has ever produced was John Fair- 
field Dryden, founder of The Prudential, 
and pioneer of industrial insurance in 
America. Mr. Dryden also accomplished 
much for the material advancement of New 
Jersey. It has been said of him, "He help- 
ed the masses to help themselves." His 
career was an illustration of greatness aris- 
ing out of a long and determined struggle 
for achievement in a new and venture- 
some field of human endeavor. His mon- 
ument is the magnificent institution of 
which he was the creator and head, and 



which links his name with the lives of mil- 
lions of people. 

For nearly forty years Mr. Dryden was 
a resident of Newark, New Jersey, and one 
its most highly honored citizens. He was 
born August 7, 1839, on a farm at Temple 
Mills, near Farmington, Maine, and his life 
is an illustration of what a young man of 
ordinary means and honest birth can ac- 
complish, and the kind of heritage he can 
leave for the benefit of humanity. His par- 
ents were John and Elizabeth B. Dryden, 
of old New England ancestry. 

Removing with his parents from Maine 
to Massachusetts when seven years of age, 
he received his early education in the 
schools of the latter State. As a youth he 
was distinguished by his studious nature 
and intellectual pursuits ; and though his 
health was never robust, he fitted himself 
for college, entering Yale in 1861. His 
over-zealousness in study broke down his 
health and compelled him to leave before 
the completion of his course. In later 
years, in recognition of his after achieve- 
ments, the university conferred upon him 
the degree of Master of Arts ; and his 
name was enrolled as one of the graduates 
of the class of 1865. 

Perhaps Mr. Dryden's glimpse of the 
frailty of health set him to thinking about 
life insurance, pointing him in the direction 
of what proved so conclusively to be his 
work in life ; for immediately after 
leaving college he became interested in the 
subject, particularly in its application to 
the practical solution of the economic prob- 
lems of the poor. His attention had been 
attracted to the methods of Tlie Pruden- 
tial Assurance Company of London, which 
some years previously had commenced the 
writing of industrial insurance, or life in- 
surance for wage earners, on the weekly 
payment plan ; and he was greatly impress- 
ed with the success which had attended its 
methods. The matter had been discussed 
in Parliament and elsewhere and had gain- 



94 





iLiigraved b> 



dbv J J Cade iJewTorK. 




CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ed a wide publicity ; and in the annual re- 
ports of the Massachusetts Insurance De- 
partment had received the notice of Pro- 
fessor Elizur Wright, the State Insurance 
Commissioner. Procuring the reports of the 
London company and all available informa- 
tion, Mr. Dryden studied and analyzed the 
matter, acquainting himself with the founda- 
tion principles, the practical details, and 
the results both from the standpoint of the 
company and that of the policyholder. Ke 
became convinced of the practicability of 
Americanizing the methods of the Englisli 
company and establishing industrial insur- 
ance in this country. Fascinated by tlie 
idea of putting an insurance policy into 
every tenement house and poor man's cab- 
in, he determined to achieve this great bless- 
ing for the poor. He began at the founda- 
tion, was full of ambitious enterprise, with 
an unbounded confidence in himself and 
the ultimate success of his idea, and it is 
owing to him that the poor man gets his 
policy of life insurance. 

In 1873 he came to Newark. The long 
continued business depression of that per- 
iod, with its attendant panic and its bank 
failures, made his task a doubly hard one ; 
but he succeeded eventually in interesting 
Horace Ailing ; William H. Murphy, father 
of former Governor Murphy ; Noah F. 
Blanchard. a leading leather manufacturer 
of the city : Dr. Leslie D. Ward, a practic- 
ing physician : and others. Obtaining a 
charter from the State Legislature, he or- 
ganized "The Widows' and Orphans 
Friendly Society," Mr. Dryden becoming 
the secretary. An office was secured in the 
basement of the bank at 810 Broad street, 
Newark ; and here in Tlie Prudential's of- 
fice he helped to lay the cornerstone of the 
present financial importance of the city of 
Newark, whose largest institution to-day 
is The Prudential. 

He started the company in an inexpen- 
sive way and without any salary for him- 
self, the economy practiced enabling it to 
weather the early days. It was not many 



years, however, before the institution was 
self-supporting. Shortly after its organi- 
zation the name of the society was changed 
to "The Prudential Friendly Society," the 
intention being at that time to found a 
workingman's benefit institution which 
would cover all of the more important con- 
tingencies affecting the lives of wage earn- 
ers ; that is, giving them financial relief in 
the event of accident, sickness or death, and 
granting an annuity in old age. The time had 
not yet come to cover so ambitious a field as 
this, however, and the plan was changed to 
provide for the payment of sums at death. 
Thinking it best to learn if possible more 
about the methods of the English Pruden- 
tial, Mr. Dryden crossed the ocean and 
made the acquaintance of Sir Henry Har- 
ben, founder of industrial insurance in the 
United Kingdom, and for many years pres- 
ident of the English Prudential. The court- 
esy with which he was received by the Lon- 
don institution and its officers, their will- 
ingness to impart information about the 
work, and the opportunities which they 
gave him of studying their ways of doing 
business, stranger that he was, were a trib- 
ute to Mr. Dryden's personality. 

After Mr. Dryden's return the name of 
The Prudential Friendly Society was 
changed to "The Prudential Insurance 
Company of America." From the earliest 
beginnings the undertaking was strictly 
limited to wage earners' insurance or in- 
dustrial insurance on the weekly payment 
plan, with the premiums collected from the 
houses of the insured. A better plan than 
this could scarcely have been devised, for 
reasons inherent to the lives and conditions 
of the earners of weekly wages. The 
workingman was taught the value of sav- 
ing. To the high standards maintained by 
Mr. Dryden's management is due the re- 
spect in which industrial insurance is held 
in this country to-day. In 1881 Mr. Dry- 
den became president of Tlie Prudential, 
in which office he continued for thirty 
years, and until his death. 



95 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



He had a genius for organization, and 
excelled in the management of men. From 
the beginning he led the forces of The Pru- 
dential by kind and gentle ways, creating 
in their minds a trust in him personally 
and a complete confidence in his word, the 
result being a force of well-disciplined em- 
ployees who were loyal to their leader. Mr. 
Dryden was an excellent judge of char- 
acter ; his own early experience taught him 
to be sympathetic with the trials of his 
agents, and he was constantly endeavoring 
to better their condition, finding ways of 
making their work easier and more suc- 
cessful. A man of diligence and integrity, 
cool and courageous, he inspired those 
about him with like qualities. Mr. Dryden's 
conception of the social service that ac- 
companied and underlaid every view of his 
business was ever uppermost in his mind. So 
strong and loyal is the memory held for 
Mr. Dryden by employees of The Pruden- 
tial that a beautiful bronze statue has been 
erected by them in the corridor of The 
Prudential building, Newark, as a tribute 
of esteem and affection from the field and 
home office force of the company. 

In 1886. The Prudential commenced the 
issue of ordinary policies in amounts of 
$1,000 and over, with premiums payable 
quarterly, and at longer intervals : the re- 
sult being a very large and rapidly growing 
ordinary business whose development was 
such that on January i, 1913, the company 
had over eight hundred and sixty million 
dollars of ordinary business on its books. 
A large amount of this insurance is secur- 
ed by industrial agents, and thus the bene- 
fits of every form of safe life insurance 
are brought home to the mass of the people. 
The Prudential has at present over 11,000,- 
000 industrial and ordinary policies in 
force, for over $2,211,000,000 industrial 
and ordinary life insurance, and is indeed 
a veritable rock of Gibraltar for the pro- 
tection of the workingman and his family. 
By issuing the two forms of insurance 
through one institution, Mr. Dryden secur- 



ed for The Prudential a foremost position 
among the life insurance companies of the 
world. 

Mr. Dryden was identified with the best 
business interests and prosperity of the 
city of Newark ; he entered into the affairs 
of various large organizations with a keen 
foresight and a sound judgment that won 
the regard of his associates wherever he 
moved. He created for the city an im- 
mense amount of taxable wealth, and gave 
large additional values to existing property 
by the improvements he projected. He 
contributed to the beautifying of the city 
by the erection of stately buildings, setting 
the example for others to follow. Trans- 
forming the old-fashioned and slow-going 
banking system, he helped to give new life 
and a new growth to Newark, making it 
a great financial centre. Suffice it to say 
that The Prudential now has over three 
hundred million dollars assets. He estab- 
lished a network of thrift from the lowest 
to the highest, showing the working people 
how to make the best use of their money 
in life insurance, and advising financial and 
other organizations how to conduct their 
enterprises to the best public advantage. 

The important part enacted by The Pru- 
dential in the city of Newark and the State 
of New Jersey is shown by the fact that 
that company since its organization has 
contributed to the city and the State in the 
form of taxes over eight million dollars, 
much of which has gone toward the main- 
tenance of schools, hospitals and other 
State and local interests. 

In appreciation of Mr. Dryden's inval- 
uable public services New Jersey chose 
him in 1896 and in 1900 as presidential 
elector. On January 29, 1902, he was elect- 
ed to the United States Senate. An active 
Republican all his life and keenly interest- 
ed in public affairs, he entered at once into 
public work, receiving a number of promi- 
nent Senate committee appointments and 
making his first speech on the subject of 
the Chinese exclusion bill. As a member 



96 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



of the Inter-Oceanic Canal Committee of 
the Senate, he was brought into close per- 
sonal cooperation and friendship with ex- 
President Taft, then Secretary of War, 
and rendered distinguished service in bring- 
ing about the legislation which made pos- 
sible the completion of the great water- 
way between the two oceans. As a mem- 
ber of the Senate library committee and 
the committee on public buildings and 
grounds, he secured action upon a number 
of important measures ; and as a member 
of the committee on immigration he gave 
material aid in effecting desirable legisla- 
tion. His amendment to the railroad rate 
bill, fixing the time for divorcing the con- 
trol of mining properties from the rail- 
roads, proved a wise and most important 
enactment. 

The dignity of his character and the 
marked abilities which he displayed gave 
him a strong influence with legislators and 
ofificials, and served to smooth the way for 
important State and local benefits ; he was 
thus enabled to obtain for New Jersey ap- 
propriations aggregating five million dollars 
He secured for the State the construction 
of some of the government's largest war 
vessels, and enriched the State treasury by 
over six hundred thousand dollars due 
from the Federal Government on unpaid 
Civil War claims. Not the least of his ac- 
tivities as Senator was his bringing to a 
successful issue a large number of the spe- 
cial bills and claims before the pension of- 
fice for the relief of old soldiers and their 
widows ; and to every case showing extreme 
want his personal attention was given. He 
also presented while in the United States 
Senate a valuable trophy, known as the 
Dryden Trophy, with the purpose of in- 
creasing the efficiency in marksmanship 
among the National Guard, the Army and 
the Navy. Indeed, his interest and his ser- 
vices covered almost every subject of State 
or National importance ; and in the dis- 
charge of the duties of his high office he 
displayed the same breadth of view and the 



same keenness of intellect that character- 
ized his administration of The Prudential 
Insurance Company. 

Mr. Dryden's term as United States Sen- 
ator expired on March 4, 1907, and his 
health not being good he withdrew from 
the contest for reelection, leaving the field 
clear to his successor. Upon recuperating 
his energies, however, he again became ac- 
tive in business life and in public affairs; 
and during the panic year of 1907 assisted 
materially in warding off a financial crisis, 
doing much in the two following years to 
extend The Prudential's field of operations. 
Additional structures were planned and 
completed, so that the four large office 
buildings in Newark now owned and occu- 
pied by the company, are considered one 
c > the finest groups of office buildings in 
the world, and a model in point of archi- 
tectural beauty and utility for business pur- 
poses, the home office employees of the 
company working under the very best pos- 
sible office conditions. 

Senator Dryden was one of the com- 
piittee that erected the McKinley Memor- 
ial at Canton, Ohio ; and was appointed 
chairman of the committee which had in 
charge the raising of the Cleveland monu- 
ment at Princeton, having started the 
movement and organized the Cleveland 
Monument Association. He personally 
conducted the movement to successful ac- 
complishment, the fund of one hundred 
and twenty-six thousand dollars, which 
was raised through popular subscription, 
actually exceeding the amount originally 
suggested for the project. 

Mr. Dryden was a member of the Pres- 
byterian church, and was a contributor to 
religious movements and charitable enter- 
prises along many lines. Believing always 
in a great future for the city of Newark, 
he cooperated in all movements to make 
the city more widely known among the 
great commercial and industrial centres, 
and was a director in many of the larger fi- 
nancial institutions of the city, State and 



II-7 



97 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



country. He was an officer in or director of 
the following corporations : The Prudential 
Insurance Company of America, president 
and director ; Fidelity Trust Company, 
Newark, vice-president and director ; 
Union National Bank, Newark, director; 
United States Steel Corporation, director ; 
United States Casualty Company, New 
York, director : National Bank of Com- 
merce, New York, director; Equitable 
Trust Company, New York, director ; Pub- 
lic Service Corporation of New Jersey, di- 
rector. 

Of the Fidelity Trust Company of New- 
ark, he was one of the originators ; and he 
was also one of the prime movers in the 
consolidation that resulted in the Public 
Service Corporation of New Jersey. It 
was in 1903 that he was made a director 
of the United States Steel Corporation in 
which he was active until his death. 

It was not only in his daily life but in 
his speeches and writings that Mr. Dryden 
was enabled to exert so important an in- 
fluence upon his fellow country men. In 
1895 he demonstrated in a speech before 
the insurance committee of the Massachu- 
setts Legislature the fallacies of a propos- 
ed bill to prohibit the insurance of children, 
and succeeded in defeating the measure. 
His writings upon insurance questions are 
among the classics of the business ; and his 
able volume, "Addresses and Papers on 
Life Insurance and Other Subjects," is 
widely recognized as a reference book on 
all matters of this nature, especially upon 
the subject of industrial insurance. Treat- 
ing on the benefits of industrial insurance, 
Mr. Dryden described it as one of the most 
effective means of family protection ever 
devised. He told also of the new life in- 
surance plan successfully undertaken by 
his company of guaranteeing the payment 
of monthly income checks through the en- 
tire lifetime of a widow or other dependent 
rather than paying the full sum of the pol- 
icy at the death of the insured. He be- 
lieved this method to be more directly in 



line with the American ideal of the highest 
degree of economic independence in old 
age. This was a growing part of The Pru- 
dential's business at the time of his death. 

A widely quoted article upon the subject 
of longevity, written by him in September, 
1 90 1, states his conclusions, based upon the 
experience of The Prudential, that the 
American people are advancing toward 
physical supremacy and distinctly longer 
lives. He also called attention to the op- 
portunities of life insurance as a career and 
discussed with keen insight the questions 
of ta.xation of life insurance and its regu- 
lation by Congress, presenting strong argu- 
ments for a reduction in the tax by the var- 
ious States, and the placing of the business 
under National supervision, in order to 
bring about uniform laws for its conduct. 
Mr. Dryden stated that his own course in 
public and business life was largely influ- 
enced by the fundamental principles of 
party responsibility and the high ideals in 
political, business and social life of Abra- 
ham Lincoln and Alexander Hamilton. 

His letters to his agents won for him a 
reputation as a clear and logical writer, and 
showed him to be a man of strong and orig- 
inal thought. He was thoroughly posted 
and well-informed on an unusual number 
of important subjects, indicating a wide 
mental scope and great judicial force. He 
was a great student of literature and the 
arts. Large and valuable libraries were 
accumulated by him at his Newark resi- 
dence and in his summer home at Ber- 
nardsville. New Jersey. He was an ac- 
knowledged connoisseur in paintings, and 
his art collection in Newark, which includ- 
ed a number of modern master-pieces, was 
one of the most ably and intelligently select- 
ed collections in the State. Mr. Dryden 
was also deeply interested in the develop- 
ment of forestry, and began the establish- 
ment of a game preserve on his property, 
having purchased in the year 191 1 the old 
Rutherford estate, seven thousand acres in 
extent, in Sussex county. New Jersey. 



98 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



As an evidence of Mr. I>rycien's belief in the multitudinous affairs which underwent 



a great future prosperity for New Jersey, 
he made this interesting prediction in an 
address before the New Jersey State Bank- 
ers Association at Atlantic City in 1906: 
"Drawing much of her energy and capi- 
tal from the great city of New York on 
the one hand, and from the great city of 
Philadelphia on the other, she (New Jer- 
sey) yet preserves an independent attitude 
and pursues an independent policy. Be- 
tween these two cities, New Jersey, with an 
area of some seven thousand square miks, 
occupies what, without question, will in 
course of time become the most valuable 
real estate in America." 

Mr. Dryden was a member of the Union 
League Qub, New York ; New York Yacht 
Club ; Railroad Club ; Autombile Qub of 
America; Metropolitan Club of Washing- 
ton ; Essex Club ; Essex County Country 
Club, and the Automobile and Motor Qub 
of New Jersey. 

His home life was ideal. Married, in 
1864, at New Haven, Connecticut, to Miss 
Cynthia J. Fairchild, he had two children: 
Forrest F. Dryden, who succeeded his fath- 
er as president of The Prudential ; and 
Susie Dryden, who married Colonel An- 
thony R. Kuser, of Trenton. 

Mr. l)ryden's death occurred after a short 
illness, at his residence in Newark, Novem- 
ber 24, 191 1, he being then in his seventy- 
third year. It was said of him, at his death, 
that a pillar of the State had fallen, and 
from the world of insurance a towering fig- 
ure was removed which for more than a 
generation had commanded the respect and 
admiration of his contemporaries. 



McGILL, Alexander Taggart, 

Distingolslied Jurist. 

Of the public life of this learned and con- 
scientious judge, Vice Chancellor Reed 
said: "Of his learning, the reports of the 
decisions of the courts over which he pre- 
sided bear ample evidence; of his industry, 



the scrutiny of his vigilant eyes, his lonely 
midnight labor, his broken health and immo- 
lated life all attest; of his exquisite amenity, 
everyone — judge, lawyer or citizen — who 
approached him professionally or personal- 
ly, can bear witness. Above all, he had 
those undefinable attributes of personality 
which go to make up character." 

Alexander Taggart McGill was bom in 
Allegheny City, Pennsylvania, October 20, 
1843, son of Alexander Taggart and Ellen 
A. (McCulloch) McGill. After graduating 
from Princeton College in 1864, he studied 
law at Columbia University, from which he 
graduated in 1866. Continuing his legal 
studies in the office of Hon. Edward W. 
Scudder, of Trenton, New Jersey, he was 
admitted to the bar as attorney in 1867, and 
as counsellor in 1870. After remaining in 
Trenton a few months, associated with his 
preceptor, he removed to Jersey City, and 
made it his permanent home. During 1870- 
76 he practiced in partnership with Attor- 
ney-General Robert Gilchrist. In 1874 and 
again in 1875 he was elected as a Demo- 
cratic member of the Assembly. He was 
appointed Prosecutor of Pleas for Hudson 
county in April. 1878, and in April, 1883, 
was made Law Judge in the same territory. 
In March, 1887, he was appointed Chancel- 
lor of the State of New Jersey, by Governor 
Green, and upon the expiration of his term 
in 1894 was reappointed by Governor 
Werts. During his term as Chancellor, the 
famous coal combine bill brought him into 
much prominence. The measure was pass- 
ed by the legislature, but did not receive the 
signature of Governor Abbett. Neverthe- 
less, the railroad companies in the combi- 
nation proceeded to act as though protected 
by existing laws; and the Attorney-Gener- 
al brought suit against the combination in 
the Court of Chancery. Chancellor McGill 
rendered a decision laying down the rela- 
tion of corporations to the State, and deal- 
ing a powerful blow to all the monopoly 
combinations of the coal-trust class. The 



99 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



clearness and fairness of the decision rend- 
ered placed his ruling beyond attack. In 
September, 1895, he was nominated by the 
Democratic party as its candidate for Gov- 
ernor. Chancellor McGill in the campaign 
that ensued refused to take part, remain- 
ing on the bench and attending strictly to 
his official duties. He was defeated in the 
Republican landslide that followed. 

As a citizen and lawyer, Chancellor 
McGill was universally respected and es- 
teemed, and as a judge he was one of the 
most popular that ever presided over the 
courts of Chancery or of Errors and Ap- 
peals. The degree of LL.D. was conferred 
on him by both Princeton and Rutgers Col- 
leges. 

He married, at Princeton, New Jersey, 
June 10, 1875, Caroline S., daughter of 
George T. Olmsted. He died in Jersey 
City, New Jersey, April 21, 1900. 



POPE, Samuel, 

Man of Enterprise, Public Official. 

A man of unusual size, six and a half 
feet in height and of proportionate build, 
Samuel Pope, one of the early stage drivers 
between Paterson, Newark, and Jersey City, 
was a man to attract attention anywhere. 
His character matched his body and for 
force, energy, bluntness, straightforward- 
ness and honesty he was remarkable. His 
iron will and tremendous body made him 
a most desirable addition to the early pio- 
neer community and in establishing new en- 
terprises he aided with all his powers. He 
was of the fourth generation of his family 
in New Jersey, the founder coming from 
Scotland and locating on a large tract of 
land at Elizabethtown. 

Samuel was the proud son of Jeremiah 
Pope of the second American generation, 
who resided in Hackensack, New Jersey, 
during the Revolutionary War, in which he 
served with the patriot army. He was 
wounded in conflict with the British, seven 
buckshot and a bullet entering his body. He 



was nursed back to life by Polly, a daugh- 
ter of Dr. Van Emburgh, of Hackensack, 
fell in love with her and later she became 
his wife. After the war he settled in West- 
ern New York, where he engaged in farm- 
ing. When war again was pending between 
the United States and Great Britain he 
served with the famous "Silver Grays," 
fighting at Lundy's Lane under General 
Scott. 

Samuel, son of Jeremiah and Polly (Van 
Emburgh) Pope, was born in Hackensack, 
New Jersey. He went west with his par- 
ents, and also fought at Lundy's Lane, near 
his father, who thought him safe at home 
on the farm. Both escaped injury in battle, 
but later both fell victims of camp fever, 
the government paying the widow a gener- 
ous pension. Samuel Pope married Eliza- 
beth Edwards, born in New England, who 
bore him two sons, John and Samuel. 

Samuel, son of Samuel and Elizabeth 
(Edwards) Pope, was born on the Western 
New York farm, between Cayuga and Sen- 
eca Lakes, October 9, 181 1, died in Pater- 
son, New Jersey. Soon after the sudden 
death of his father and grandfather, his 
grandmother brought Samuel to Paterson, 
he then being two years old and soon be- 
coming motherless. He attended school un- 
til he was ten years of age, then beginning 
work in Colt's flax and cottonmill. Soon 
afterward he was employed in a similar 
mill owned by John Travers, and there ac- 
cidently had his left hand badly mutilated, 
and while convalescing from this injury he 
attended school for two terms. His next 
employer was William Jacobs, who was to 
teach him wood turning. Not receiving his 
wages, he sued Jacobs, employing Judge 
Ogden as counsel, paying him by personal 
labor. He thus early developed that dis- 
position to stand up for his right, that spir- 
it being a characteristic of his entire life. 

For the next eight years he "drove stage" 
between Paterson and New York, worked 
on the construction of the turnpike between 
those cities, helped build the Morris road, 



100 



-1^ 




J ^ <^-vn-^,<,-e^ O^ o-^' 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



and with his horses and carts aided in con- 
structing the Paterson & Hudson River 
railroad. After the road was completed he 
drove the teams that pulled the cars, and 
attended to the baggage for a time. He 
then entered the employ of John Robert 
and Edward Stevens, of Hoboken, and 
drove their opposition line of stages bx.- 
tween Paterson and Hoboken, not infre- 
quently beating the railroad time. Later 
he continued the opposition line on his own 
account, driving the best horses he could 
buy, shortening the reg^ilar time (2-1/2 
hours) and reducing the fare to two shill- 
ings and sixpence each way. 

About 1834 three locomotive engines 
were brought from England and placed on 
the railroad. Judge Ogden then being its 
president. Mr. Pope was called upon to 
assist in getting the first locomotive on the 
track ready for operation, and for eight 
months was its fireman. Then, a new pres- 
ident having been elected, Mr. Pope left the 
road and started the opposition line of four 
stages previously afluded to. About the 
year 1837 he gave up that business and pur- 
chased the wood standing on about three 
thousand acres of land. This he cut and 
sold to the New York & Erie railroad, 
which had leased the first built road. He 
continued in that business for many years ; 
in fact, that may be said to have been his 
principal business, although he built mills, 
opened and developed quarries. Erected 
many buildings of stone, brick and wood, 
in short was ready for any enterprise that 
was honest and promised profit. He built 
one of the Gin Mill group of factories, a 
part of the works at the city pumping sta- 
tion, the great wall around the Colt's Hill 
property, and many other structures in Pat- 
erson. He cut the wood from many thou- 
sands of acres, one of his purchases being 
five thousand acres bought from Cooper & 
Hewitt, in the northern part of Passaic 
county. He succeeded in a financial sense, 
amassing a large fortune and owning valu- 
able properties in and around Paterson. He 

lOI 



was clearheaded and resourceful, kindly 
hearted and genial, one of the truest of 
friends and the bitterest of enemies, never 
resting under an injury until fully reveng- 
ed. But when revenged, he was the first to 
lend his former enemy a helping hand. He 
lived to an honorable old age and among 
Paterson's citizens no man was held in 
more genuine esteem. 

He was an ardent Democrat all his life, 
his first vote having been cast for General 
Jackson when he was but seventeen, his 
great size not denoting his youth to the 
judges. He became a leading figure in 
local politics and held many offices. He 
was street superintendent under both vil- 
lage and city governments, was assessor 
and collector of taxes, member of the first 
city council, 1851-2, and as city treasurer 
signed the first municipal bonds issued by 
the city of Paterson. His salary as treasurer 
was $200 yearly ; he gave security bonds for 
$60,000, paid out $300 yearly for clerk hire, 
besides furnishing an office in which ta 
transact city business, and lighted and heat- 
ed it at his own expense. In 1857 he was 
elected to represent the South and Fifth 
Wards of Paterson in the State Legislatuie 
and was re-elected for five terms, serving 
continuously from 1857 to 1863, except in 
1862. He was influential in the Legisla- 
ture, supported the Stevens interest in the 
road from Newark to Hoboken, fought the 
old New Jersey road with all his strength, 
and was elected to succeed himself in spite 
of the opposition of that road which sent 
$3000 into the district to defeat him. Amid 
all this strife he maintained his reputation 
for honesty and fair dealing, his uncom- 
promising integrity never being questioned. 
He would accept no office after retiring 
from the Legislature, and for many years 
prior to his death was totally retired from 
business life. He gave liberally to all 
churches : loaned the New York & Lake 
Erie railroad the money needed to construct 
depot and freight buildings in Paterson ; 
and aided in many ways to advance Pater- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



«on interests. He was a character not often 
duplicated, and while a truly selfmade man, 
his life was one which the most favored 
might well be proud to have lived. 

In 1836 he married Eliza Rose, of Hav- 
trstraw, who survived him without issue. 
[n 1872, while sleeping, he and his wife 
were bound in their bed by eight masked 
burglars who entered his handsome Broad- 
way residence and robbed him of $13,000 in 
bonds and money. 



NELSON, Samuel Cogswell, 

Business Man, Fnblic Official. 

The judgment of the world is quickly 
passed upon a man who by any chance 
rises above the common level, whether that 
judgment be commendatory or the reverse. 
That a life has been successful from a pe- 
cuniary point of view does not satisfy the 
public mind, but it is demanded that a man 
to win public regard must not only be suc- 
cessful in his own line, but he must win the 
respect of his fellows through an honorable 
and upright life. Considered then from 
these angles, Samuel Cogswell Nelson, late 
of Jersey City, New Jersey, was a success- 
ful man, as he held the respect of his fel- 
lowmen and left behind him the record of 
a well spent life, one worthy of emulation. 
He was of the same family as Lord Nelson. 
the famous naval hero of England, and of 
Thomas Nelson Page, equally famous as a 
writer. Another ancestor was one of the 
signers of the Declaration of Independence. 
The name of Nelson is of Scandinavian 
origin, and was derived from Nilsson, 
meaning son Nils or Neil. It is not only 
found in Scotland and Ireland, but in al- 
most every county in England, especially 
in those bordering the sea which, in ancient 
times, were exposed to frequent ravages by 
the piratical Norsemen, or Vikings. In this 
country the Nelsons of this family located 
at an early date on the banks of the Hudson 
at what is now known as Garrison's, but 
was then Nelson's Landing. They were 



farmers generally, and a number of them 
took an active part in the War of the Rev- 
olution. 

Cornelius Madivale Nelson, father of 
Samuel Cogswell Nelson, was born in 
America, about 1780. He was a farmer, 
and was also the local doctor and dentist, 
and the blacksmith of the section. He held 
the rank of major during the war of 1812, 
his military services being in the Bronx, 
and was buried at St. Philip's Church, at 
Garrison, New York. He married Char- 
ity Jacques. 

Samuel Cogswell Nelson was born Feb 
ruary 10, 1819, and died October 3, 1883. 
His education was acquired in schools in the 
vicinity of his home, and at the age of fifteen 
years he came to New York City and there 
entered the chandlery business, with which 
he was identified until his retirement from 
business responsibilities. He learned this 
business thoroughly in every detail, rising 
from rank to rank, by reason of his faith- 
ful discharge of the duties entrusted to him, 
until he was admitted to partnership, the 
firm becoming Martin and Nelson. Subse- 
quently Mr. Nelson acquired the sole rights 
of this important concern, and conducted it 
until his retirement from business. He re- 
moved to Jersey City, New Jersey, April 5, 
1865. He was a man of great executive 
ability, active in the interests of the Dem- 
ocratic party, and served as comptroller of 
Jersey City. He was a member of St. Paul's 
Episcopal Church, and of the Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows. 

Mr. Nelson married Eliza Jane Watson, 
of New York City, and they became the 
parents of eleven children. Mandeville 
Nelson, the eldest son, served as assistant 
paymaster on the L^nited States steamer 
"Daylight," during the Civil War. He was 
very young when he volunteered for ser- 
vice, but was accepted, and soon became 
paymaster. He was sent on a commission 
to Washington, in a small boat. While there 
he went to meet a comrade who had just 
come from the South, thinly clad, and Mr. 



102 





C^^k^^^e:^^ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Nelson, fearing the cold for his friend, 
wore a second overcoat over his own, in 
order to give it to the new arrival. While 
on the way, the boat capsized and Mr. Nel- 
son, although handicapped by the weight 
of the two coats, succeeded in saving the 
lives of two sailors, but lost his own. For 
many years these sailors visited the office 
of Samuel Cogswell Nelson, to testify to 
their grateful remembrance of his heroic 



MEEKER, John Harbeck, 

Lawyer, Jurist, Financier. 

John Harbeck Meeker, lawyer, statesman, 
financier, was distinctly one of the repre- 
sentative men of that section of New Jer- 
sey in which he resided. He promoted the 
public welfare through every conceivable 
channel, and proved himself fully alive to 
those higher duties which represent the 
most valuable citizenship in any locality and 
at any period. His personal career was 
such as to render him particularly eligible 
for representation within these pages. 

Samuel Meeker, his father, was born at 
Springfield, New Jersey, November 13, 
1786. He received his business training 
from his uncle, Samuel Meeker, who was 
for many years a prominent merchant and 
business man of Philadelphia. Samuel 
Meeker, the second, manufactured car- 
riages at Rahway. New Jersey, which for 
many years he sold to the Southern trade, 
having extensive buildings in Charleston, 
South Carolina, to which city he shipped 
the manufactured carriages, and exhibited 
and sold them. After his retirement from 
the business he had his residence on Broad 
street, Newark, where Dr. Ill now resides. 
From 1854 until his death he served as pres- 
ident of the State Bank of Newark. He 
also served for a number of years as pres- 
ident of the Newark Savings Institution, 
and was holding the office of vice-president 
of that institution at the time of his death. 
As president of the Newark Gas Company, 



he also rendered excellent service. For 
many years he was a vestryman, warden 
and treasurer of Trinity Church, Newark. 
Upon the erection of Grace Church, New- 
ark, he joined it, and served as vestryman, 
and afterwards as warden, continuing as 
such until his death. Mr. Meeker married 
Martha Harbeck, of New York City, the 
ceremony being performed at old St. 
Mark's Church, in that city. 

John Harbeck Meeker was born in Qark 
township, near Rahway, New Jersey, July 2, 
1823, and died in South Orange, New Jersey, 
January 20, 1889. At the age of six years 
he commenced to attend the Rev. Mr. Hal- 
sey's Preparatory Boarding School, at Eliz- 
abeth, New Jersey, and was there prepared 
for entrance to the university. He matric- 
ulated at Yale College in 1838, and was 
graduated from that institution in the class 
of 1842. He then took up the study of 
law and was admitted to the bar of New 
Jersey in July, 1846. For many years he 
was a manager of the Dime Savings Insti- 
tution of Newark, and from May, 1881. 
until his death, he was the attorney and 
counsel of that institution. In the early 
years of his manhood he affiliated with the 
Whig party, but about the year 185 1 he 
joined the Democratic party. He served 
as secretary of the State Senate of New 
Jersey in 1864-65 ; was a judge of the Els- 
sex County Courts from 1877 to 1882; 
special master of the Court of Chancery 
for many years prior to his death ; and was 
a Supreme Court Commissioner and also 
a Commissioner of the United States Cir- 
cuit Court. In early life he was an officer 
in the New Jersey State Militia. For many 
years he was a member of St. John's 
Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, of 
Newark, New Jersey. His early religious 
training was that of the Presbyterian de- 
nomination, but for many years prior to his 
death he attended the services of the Pro- 
testant Episcopal Church. 

Mr. Meeker married, in Newark, in Oc- 
tober, 1846, Henrietta A. Bolles, daughter 



103 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



of Nathan and Abby Johnson (Baldwin) the July 20 following, he purchased from 



Bolles, and they had children : Samuel, 
born June 23, 1849, died January 31, 1902; 
Henrietta Harbeck, who married Dr. Wal- 
ter J. Norfolk, of Salem, Massachuseitb ; 
John Harbeck, born May 19, 1854, of East 
Orange, New Jersey ; Mary Abby French, 
of East Orange, New Jersey ; Charles Hen- 
ry, born September 19, 1865, who resides 
at Newton, New Jersey. 



SANDFORD, Theodore, 

Man of Enterprise, Historian. 

Among the men of high distinction, 
scholarly attainments and wide experience 
of Belleville, New Jersey, was the late 
Theodore Sandford, well known in profes- 
sional and public life for more than half 
a century. To his own discretion, foresight 
and superior ability was due the splendid 
success that crowned his efforts. His well 
spent life commended him to the confidence 
and esteem of all with whom he was brought 
in contact, and his reputation in both busi- 
ness and public life was unassailable. He 
was of the seventh generation in this coun- 
try of the family founded by Captain Wil- 
liam Sandford, and his family is entirely 
distinct from that founded by the Rev. Cor- 
nelis Van Santvoordt, one of the earliest 
of the Dutch Reformed ministers to New 
Netherlands. 

Captain (or Major) William Sandford, 
mentioned above, came to this country from 
the Island of Barbadoes, West Indies, in 
1668, and on July 4 of that year, he receiv- 
ed a grant of all the meadows and upland 
lying south of a line drawn from the Hack- 
ensack to the Passaic rivers, seven miles 
north of their intersection, comprising five 
thousand three hundred and eight acres of 
upland and ten thousand acres of 
meadow. For this grant, which was the fa- 
mous "Neck" of the early town rec- 
ords of Newark, he agreed to pay twen- 
ty pounds sterling per annum "in lieu of 
the half-penny per annum forever." On 



the Indians all their right and title to the 
same tract. Nathaniel Kingsland, sergeant- 
major of the Island of Barbadoes, became 
interested in this purchase ; and from the 
fact that in the Newark town records, un- 
der date of September 29, 1671, the free- 
holders of Newark were empowered to 
"Buy the Neck of Captain William Sand- 
ford or his Uncle or Both if they Could 
Agree for it and pay what they shall en- 
gage," it has been conjectured that Major 
Kingsland was William Sandford's uncle. 
Of his other relations it is known that, Oc- 
tober 9, 1676, the authorities at New York 
granted Captain William Sandford letters 
of administration on the estate of Robert 
Sandford, of Barbadoes, "his nephew," 
who "by an unhappy accident came to be 
drowned in the harbour near this city and 
died intestate." William Sandford received 
the confirmation of his grant from the 
Dutch, August 18, 1673. He was offered a 
place on the Council of Governor Philip 
Carteret in 1669, but declined this. When 
the Dutch finally relinquished the province, 
Governor Cartaret returned, and Mr. Sand- 
ford then accepted a position in his Coun- 
cil, November 6, 1674, and retained this for 
a number of years. Royal proclamation con- 
tinued him as a councillor in the instructions 
to Governor Thomas Rudyard, December 
10, 1682, and in those of Gawen Lawrie, 
February 28, 1684. In the last appointment 
he is spoken of as "Major" William Sand- 
ford ; his title of captain was conferred upon 
him July 15, 1675, while he was residing at 
Newark, and acting as captain of militia. 
He married Sarah Whartman, and had chil- 
dren : Nedemiah, Katherine, Peregrine. 
William, Grace and Elizabeth. 

William M. Sandford, a descendant in the 
sixth generation of Captain William Sand- 
ford, was born in Belleville, New Jersey, 
April 3, 1798, and died there in 1888. He 
was a manufacturer of carriages, and at one 
time a member of the State Legislature. He 
married Mary Spear Dow, who died April 



104 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



24, 1894, and who was a daughter of John 
Dow and Anna Bruen Dow. They had five 
children. 

Theodore Sandford, son of William M. 
and Mary Spear (Dow) Sandford, was born 
in Belleville, New Jersey, August 26, 1819, 
and died in the same town, February 26, 
1910. A;t the time he commenced to at- 
tend school there was but one in the town 
of his birth, and this was located in a two- 
story, stone building, situated just in front 
of the present lecture room of the Dutch 
Reformed church, the school being conduct- 
ed in the lower part of this building by Jere- 
miah T. Bowen, who was paid every three 
months by the parents for the tuition of their 
children. This, and later two other private 
schools, were patronized until the introduc- 
tion of the public school system, September 
4, 1852, when Mr. Sandford was selected as 
one of the first school trustees. Upon the 
completion of this part of his education Mr. 
Sandford was apprenticed to learn the 
wheelwright's trade, but his brilliant mind 
was not satisfied with mere manual labor, 
and he employed all his spare time in reading 
law. He became a commissioner of deeds, 
wrote numerous wills and other legal docu- 
ments, and was the legal adviser of many. 
For a period of more than fifty years he 
was a country squire and justice of the 
peace, in which offices he probably served 
longer than any other man in the State of 
New Jersey. He was a member of the 
board of freeholders, and one of the first 
directors in the Merchants' Mutual Insur- 
ance Company of Newark. Throughout his 
life Mr. Sandford took an active part in 
community affairs, and he exercised a 
marked influence in the development of 
both his city and county. He was a pioneer 
in local improvements and guarded with 
jealous care the interests of the tax-paying 
public. He was a strong supporter of the 
Republican party, a member of the Masonic 
fraternity, and attended the Reformed 
church. He wielded a graceful and facile 
pen, was well informed upon historical top- 

105 



ics, and was the author of a well written 
chapter upon the "History of Belleville 
Township," which appears in Shaw's "His- 
tory of Essex and Hudson Counties," which 
was published in 1884. 

Mr. Sandford married, November 16, 
1842, Margaret Leah, the youngest child of 
Abram and Maria (Spear) Van Riper, and 
their surviving children are: Helen A., Ar- 
thur Ellison, Sarah A. and Eliza Mary. 
Several died in infancy. Mr. Sandford was 
devoted to his wife and children. He was 
gracious and hospitable in his home, sincere 
and earnest in his religious faith, and so 
honest and honorable in all the affairs of his 
life, that the faintest breath was never raised 
to question his integrity. 



BONNELL, Samuel, Jr., 

Prominent Coal Merchant, Financier. 

In the character of Samuel Bonnell Jr., 
of Elizabeth, New Jersey, were united in an 
unusual degree enthusiasm, ambition and a 
resistless energy, combined with striking 
executive ability. He was a son of Sam- 
uel and Cornelia (Bringherst) Bonnell, of 
Philadelphia. 

Samuel Bonnell Jr. was born in Philadel- 
phia in 1824, and died in Elizabeth, New 
Jersey, in 1885. A part of his education was 
acquired in a school conducted by Quakers, 
in Philadelphia, and he then completed it in 
a school in Hamburg, Germany, where he 
became a master of the German language. 
LIpon his return to Philadelphia, he became 
associated in the coal business with the firm 
of Robert Walton & Company. In 1852 he 
accepted the position of superintendent of 
the Black Diamond Mine, at Wilkesbarre, 
and three years later established himself in 
the coal business in the city of New York. 
So successful was he in this enterprise that, 
at the time of his death, he was the largest 
independent coal merchant in New York. 
He was a director of the National Fire and 
Marine Insurance Company of America; 
one of the organizers and vice-president of 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



the Dime Savings Institution of Elizabeth, 
New Jersey. His New York firm was known 
as S. Bonnell Jr. & Company, and for some 
time after he was established in New York 
he continued his connection with the coal 
business in Philadelphia, the firm being 
known as Van Dusen, Morter & Company. 
He dealt mainly in Wyoming and Lehigh 
Valley coal. He was well known throughout 
the coal trade, and had large affiliations with 
the shipping. For many years his office was 
in the Trinity Building, and was the center 
of the commission coal trade of New York. 
While living in Philadelphia he was a mem- 
ber of the Volunteer Fire Department. Af- 
ter removing to Elizabeth, he took an active 
part in public affairs of that town. He was 
a member of the Elizabeth board of educa- 
tion, and at one time was candidate for the 
office of mayor, but was defeated by Peter 
Bonnett. He was a leading worker in be- 
half of a number of charitable institutions, 
and served as vestryman in St. John's 
Church for many years. 

Mr. Bonnell married, November 30, 1854, 
at Narrows, Long Island, Mary S. Oliver, 
the Rev. Michael Schofield officiating. Chil- 
dren of this marriage: Children of thi^ 
marriage : Adelaide and Russell. Mr. Bonnell 
was a man of great public spirit. Every pro- 
ject, which had for its object the improve- 
ment of the community in any direction, was 
assured of his hearty support and co-opera- 
tion, and he contributed generously, not 
only of his time, but also of his means. To 
the needy and distressed ; he was ever a 
fatherly friend, but his charities were al- 
ways bestowed in as vmostentatious a man- 
ner as conditions would permit. In every 
thought and deed he was truly a Christian 
gentleman. 



MOSES, John, 

Man of Affairs, Financier. 

John Moses, late of Trenton, New Jer- 
sey, was not merely a business man who ac- 
quitted himself with dignity, fidelity and 



honor, in the various responsible positions 
he was called upon to fill, but he was a thor- 
oughly practical and true type of a self made 
man. A man whose natural abilities would 
secure him prominence in any community, 
he won the approbation and esteem of his 
fellow citizens. His work was widely ex- 
tended, and will be felt for many years to 
come. He was a son of David and Anne 
(McFarland) Moses, the former an Eng- 
lishman of Welsh descent, the latter a na- 
tive of Scotland. 

John Moses was born in County Tyrone, 
Ireland, December 24, 1832, and died in 
Trenton, New Jersey, January 21, 1902. He 
was educated in the common schools of his 
native country, and lived there until he was 
eighteen years of age. Having by that time 
come to the conclusion that there was but 
little opportunity for an ambitious, energetic 
young man to advance to any degree in Ire- 
land, he determined to emigrate to Ameri- 
ca. He arrived at Philadelphia in 1850 and 
was fortunate enough to obtain a position 
as invoice clerk with a firm of importers, 
Levy & Company, at that time one of the 
largest concerns of its kind in the country. 
Subsequently he obtained a practical knowl- 
edge of mining operations near Shamokin, 
Pennsylvania. He removed to Trenton, 
New Jersey, in 1855, and there became book- 
keeper for Henderson G. Scudder, a posi- 
tion he retained until President Lincoln's 
call for three months' men in 1861. Hav- 
ing served his time in Company A, Nation- 
al Guard of New Jersey, from 1861 to 
1863. he returned to Trenton and resumed 
his work. During the summer and early 
fall of 1863 he paid a visit to his native land, 
and upon his return to Trenton, purchased 
the pottery works which had been estab- 
lished by William I. Shreve, but had not 
proved profitable in his hands. Mr. Moses 
associated Isaac Weatherby and S. K. Wil- 
son with himself, in his conduct of this en- 
terprise, and as they employed a man from 
Glasgow to superintend the workings of the 
factory, they gave it the name of the Glas- 



106 




^^^2?^^^^^2>5 

->- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



gow Pottery, and manufactured all kinds 
of wares. Mr. Moses was connected with 
this enterprise until his death, and it proved 
to be a very profitable investment. His suc- 
cess in this line of industry was recognized 
by others in the same field, and he served 
for a long time as president of the National 
Potters' Association. He was interested in 
a number of financial enterprises, in all of 
which his business acumen was recognized, 
and he was for several years president of 
the Mechanics National Bank. His social 
membership was with the Trenton Country 
Club, and he was for a period of forty years 
a vestryman and warden of St. Michael's 
Protestant Episcopal Church. A large por- 
tion of the later years of his life were de- 
voted to travel, and he had gone several 
times to the Pacific coast, and visited almost 
every State in the Union. He also made 
almost yearly trips to Europe. 

Mr. Moses married, in Trenton, New Jer- 
sey, April 20, 1865, Olivia Gardner, born in 
1839, a daughter of Mortimer Paul and 
Sarah Stratton (Gardner) Forman, and they 
had children : Howard B., born July 5, 
1866; Arthur G., born March 21, 1868, was 
graduated from Princeton University in the 
class of 1891 ; Frederick J., born Septem- 
ber 22, 1870, was graduated from Prince- 
ton in 1892; Walter, born May 10, 1872, 
was graduated from Princeton in 1895 ; Hel- 
en G., was educated at Miss Porter's School 
in Farmington, Connecticut ; Annie F., died 
in infancy. Mr. Moses was a man of gen- 
uine business ability, whose judgment was 
never warped, nor his foresight clouded. 
The salient features of his character were 
exemplified in his career, which was one of 
usefulness and honor. No better descrip- 
tion could be given of him than that con- 
tained in the words: "He was a manly 
man." 



STOCKTON, Dr. Charles Stacy, 

Leader in Commiuiity Affairs, Idtteratenr. 

Dr. Charles Stacy Stockton, whose death 
at the end of a long and useful career was a 



severe shock to the community in which he 
resided, had added greatly to the prestige 
of his family name, which had already been 
lionored by many distinguished bearers. He 
u'as the dean of the dental profession in 
New Jersey, and the excellent work he ac- 
complished has left its mark on dentistry 
throughout the world. His family, which 
was an ancient one in England, appeared in 
this country in the early Colonial days, the 
progenitor of this branch being Richard 
Stockton, who was of Charleston, Massa- 
chusetts, in 1639. He was one of the orig- 
inal patentees of Flushing, Long Island, 
where he was a lieutenant in the Horse 
Guards, and a man of wealth and influence. 
Later he became a member of the Society 
of Friends, sold his Long Island property, 
and purchased twelve hundred acres of land 
in Springfield township, Burlington county, 
New Jersey, where he died about 1706. He 

married Abigail , who was living in 

1714, and may have been his second wife. 

Stacy Stockton, of the sixth generation 
in this country, and father of Dr. Stockton, 
married Eliza Rossell. Among other noted 
ancestors of Dr. Stockton were Richard 
Stockton, one of the signers of the Decla- 
ration of Independence, and the grandson 
ot this Richard, Robert F. Stockton, known 
as "the Commodore," whose work had great 
effect in shaping this history of our country. 
One of the public schools in Orange has 
been named in honor of this family. 

Dr. Charles Stacy Stockton was born in 
Springfield township, Burlington county. 
New Jersey, December 17, 1836, and died at 
his home at No. "]"] Harrison street, East 
Orange, New Jersey, September 9, 1912. 
He received his education at Pennington 
Seminary, from which he was graduated as 
the valedictorian of his class, and early 
evinced a fondness for scientific study, and 
displayed remarkable mechanical skill, two 
attributes which well qualified him for the 
profession of dentistry which he was desir- 
ous of studying. He commenced his studies 
in this direction under Dr. C. A. Kings- 
bury, of Mount Holly, and continued them 



107 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



at the Penn College of Dental Surgery, from 
which he was graduated with the degree of 
Doctor of Dental Surgery. He commenced 
his independent practice at Mount Holly, 
where he became the successor of Dr. Kings- 
bury, and continued there until 1873, in 
which year he removed to Newark, New 
Jersey. He has since confined his practice 
to that city, but for several years prior to 
his death had a beautiful home in East 
Orange. It was mainly through his efforts 
that the New Jersey Dental Society was 
organized, and he was the last charter mem- 
ber on the rolls. His interest in this society 
never abated, and unless illness or distance 
prevented, was never absent from a meet- 
ing. He was also a charter member of the 
Central Dental Association, a local society of 
Newark, and these two societies are con- 
sidered the most successful of their kind in 
the country. He was a member of the 
American Dental Association, and at one 
time its first vice-president. He was a mem- 
ber of the American Medical Society, the 
Odontological Society of New York City, 
the Stomatological Society, and the First 
District Society of New York, in the activi- 
ties of all of which he was a leading spirit, 
his addressi.3 being listened to with the great- 
est attention, and earning well deserved com- 
mendation. In 1903 he was tendered a com- 
plimentary dinner in New York City, which 
was one of the largest gatherings of its 
kind ever held, approximately three hundred 
people being present, among these prom- 
inent men from all parts of the country. 
In many complimentary dinners since that 
time Dr. Stockton was one of the principal 
speakers, and was always certain of an in- 
terested and attentive audience. He was se- 
lected as one of the fifteen prominent den- 
tists of the country to organize and bring in- 
to successful existence the World's Colum- 
bian Congress, of which he was one of the 
vice-presidents. For the long period of fifty- 
nine years he had been in the active practice 
of his profession. Dr. Stockton took great 
interest in the interchange of dental licenses 



between the several states. In 1873 and 
again in 1903 he was a member of the St" 
Board of Registration and Examination in 
Dentistry. Through his personal efforts the 
first thirteen hundred dollars was collected 
for the establishment of the Newark Free 
Dental Clinic. He was the first to move 
in the interests of Newark's present fine 
Free Library and the establishment of the 
Newark Technical School. He was fre- 
quently called upon to make addresses be- 
fore colleges and seminaries, some of his 
most prominent ones being: "Great Believ- 
ers," which the Rev. Dr. Theodore Cuyler 
said should be in the hands of every young 
man in America. His address at Penning- 
ton Seminary on "Right Thinking and Good 
Living," also attracted widespread atten- 
tion. His writings also were recognized as 
possessing merit of high order. Among his 
addresses and essays in published form we 
find : "Dentistry and Something Else," 
"Culture," "Failures," "The Young Man of 
Today," "The Autobiography of a Cent," 
"Great Believers," etc. He always showed 
a commendable interest and activity in the 
affairs of the Republican party, but although 
he was frequently tendered high public of- 
fice, repeatedly and consistently refused to 
accept nomination. Dr. Stockton was a 
strong Episcopalian and was frequently 
called upon to represent Grace Church, Or- 
ange, of which he was a regular communi- 
cant, at the Diocesan conventions. As a busi- 
ness man Dr. Stockton also displayed re- 
markable ability, and was one of the direc- 
tors of the Merchants' Bank, of Newark, 
New Jersey. He had not alone a national, 
but an international, reputation, and shortly 
before his death had been invited to address 
the various dental societies of Berlin, Ger- 
many. Among other organizations with 
which Dr. Stockton was connected were : 
The Newark Harmonic Society, of which he 
was the last president, in 1888; Washing- 
ton Headquarters' Association, and one of 
its governors ; Essex County Country Club ; 
Republican Club of East Orange ; Essex 



108 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Qub; City Club of East Orange; St. 
' ;hn's Lodge, No. i , Free and Accepted Ma- 
sons. He was at one time president of the 
Newark Board of Trade. He died after an 
illness from which he had been suffering for 
some years, and Rev. Charles Thomas Walk- 
ley had charge of the funeral services, the 
interment being at Perth Amboy, New Jer- 
sey. Dr. Stockton was married, at Perth 
Amboy, September 23, 1857, to Martha An- 
nah, a daughter of Joel and Hannah (Oak- 
ley) Smith, and they had children: Frank 
Oakley, born April 26, 1859; Mary Knighi, 
born January 21, 1866, married Robert Wal- 
lace Elliott, a sketch of whom follows this. 



ELLIOTT. Robert Wallace, 

Leader in Important Industries. 

Robert Wallace Elliott holds distinctive 
prestige as one of the representative busi- 
ness men of the State of New Jersey. He 
was an important factor in promoting the 
interests of the State, in material, moral and 
aesthetic lines. His ancestors were of 
Scotch-Irish and Spanish extraction, and 
included many eminent men. among them 
being Sir William Elliott, of the English 
Navy. Since the early part of the nineteenth 
century, this branch of the Elliott family 
has been resident in the United States, great- 
ly to the benefit of the communities in which 
they have been located. The grand fathei 
of Mr. Elliott, Alexander Elliott, establish- 
ed a foundry in Philadelphia about 1825. 

Alexander Elliott was married to Anna 
Leonard, daughter of Barnard Leonard, in 
Lam, Ireland. Barnard Leonard was an 
English officer, and was killed in battle un- 
der Nelson at the battle of Trafalgar. Alex- 
ander Elliott, their son, born in Carrickfer- 
gus, Ireland, married Louisa Wallace, 
daughter of Joseph Wallace (a soldier in 
the War of 1812), and Elizabeth Sigman, 
in Mauch Chunk, Pennsylvania. Jacob 
Sigman, who served in the Revolutionary 
War, was married to Elizabeth Miller ; their 
daughter, Elizabeth Sigman, was married to 

109 



Joseph Wallace, in Easton, Pennsylvania ; 
Louisa Wallace, their daughter, born in 
Hanover, Pennsylvania, was married to 
Alexander Elliott, in Mauch Chunk, Penn- 
sylvania ; Robert Wallace Elliott, their son, 
born in Dover, New Jersey. 

Robert Wallace Elliott, son of Alexander 
and Louisa (Wallace) Elliott, was born in 
Dover, New Jersey, July 11, 1856. He was 
the recipient of an excellent education, 
which was completed by attendance at Le- 
high University, Pennsylvania, from which 
institution he was graduated. He became 
the manager of the iron mines of his father, 
in New Jersey, in 1872, and had an active 
and varied business career. He was the 
manager of the Delaware Rolling Mills, at 
Phillipsburg, New Jersey, from 1880 to 
1883. On March i, 1885, he removed to Jer- 
sey City, having formed a connection with 
the Gas Improvement Company, and in 1890 
was elected vice-president and general man- 
ager of the Hudson County Gas Company. 
At the time of his death he was the owner 
of iron mines in Northern New Jersey, and 
managed these with consummate ability. The 
welfare of the unfortunate had always en- 
gaged a goodly share of his time and atten- 
tion, and he was appointed by Governor 
Green as a member of the commission hav- 
ing in charge the erection of a State Re- 
formatory. His religious affiliation had been 
with St. John's Church, Dover, New Jer- 
sey, Grace Episcopal Church of Jersey 
City, and Grace Church of Orange, New 
Jersey. Socially he was a member of the 
Manhattan and the Twilight Clubs, of New 
York City ; Palma and Cartaret Clubs, of 
Jersey City, New Jersey. 

Mr. Elliott married in East Orange, New 
Jersey, August 6, 1894, Mary Knight, a 
daughter of Dr. Charles Stacy and Martlia 
Annah (Smith) Stockton. He ranked 
among the foremost business men of the 
State and in social circles his pleasing per- 
sonality, culture and genialitv won him 
many friends. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



LOCKWARD, Lewis Grover, 

Financier, Pnblic Official. 

The life of Lewis Grover Lockward was 
so closely associated with one community 
that it is difficult to think of him apart from 
that environment in which he was so fa- 
miliar a figure, and upon which he left so 
potently the impress of his individuality. 
Born, living out a long life of varied use- 
fulness, all within the compass of a small 
town, and only leaving it at the iinal, inevit- 
able summons, his influence was intensive 
rather than extensive, and the significance 
of his personality lay, not so much in its 
ability to affect great numbers of his fel- 
lows, as in the trenchancy with which it was 
felt within the comparatively small circle 
that he called home. How strong was this 
effect may be judged from the fact that all 
the business houses in his native town, as a 
mark of respect, suspended all operations 
during the hour in which his funeral took 
place. 

Mr. Lockward's father, Dr. John T. 
Lockward, was born in New York City in 
1808, and studied medicine at the Mary- 
land State Medical College. From this in- 
stitution he graduated in 1833, and came to 
Caldwell, New Jersey, to practice. Here he 
married Charlotte Personnette, a native of 
Caldwell, and here on July 14, 1839. the sub- 
ject of this sketch was born. 

Mr. Lockward was educated in the 
schools of Caldwell and vicinity, and in 
1867, in his twenty-ninth year, was taken 
into the firm of Campbell & Lane, manufac- 
turers of tobacco and cigars. In this busi- 
ness he continued, with a single break of 
five years, from 1874 to 1879, until his 
death, the firm eventually taking the name 
of the Lane and Lockward Company. 

Mr. Lockward was a Democrat in poli- 
tics, and filled many public offices with a 
rectitude and disinterestedness as admir- 
able as it is rare. He was in 1872 and 
1886 a member of the township committee 
of Caldwell township when it still included 

I 



the borough of Caldwell and the township 
of Verona, and he also served on the Board 
of Freeholders of Essex county, 1874-76, 
and as collector 1877-79. He was elected 
the first mayor of Caldwell borough, Feb- 
ruary 9, 1892, an office which he held for 
two years, declining a re-election. For six- 
teen years, from 1882 to 1898, he was a 
member of the Caldwell Board of Educa- 
tion, and for nine years its president. Mr. I 
Lockward's activities were of the most var- 
ied sort, and he took a keen interest in all 
the affairs of the community, especially in 
the education of the young people and the 
conduct of the public schools. He was one 
of the organizers of the Citizens National 
Bank, and president of the same until a 
short time before his death, when, realizing 
the precarious condition of his health, he 
refused to sanction his re-election although 
urged to do so. He was one of the organ- 
izers and first president of the Caldwell 
Building and Loan Association, and one of 
the organizers and a director of the New 
Jersey Fire Insurance Company. In re- 
ligion he was a staunch Presbyterian and 
also a member of the Caldwell Presbyterian 
Church, of which he was elected parish 
clerk, December 28, 1878, a position which 
he held for upwards of thirty years. He 
was also a trustee of the church and active in 
urging the present church edifice. Mr. Lock- 
ward was for many years prominent in the 
Masonic Order. He joined Caldwell 
Lodge, No. 59, Free and Accepted Masons, 
February 6, 1863, and served as junior 
warden and worshipful master. Three 
years later he joined Union Chapter, No. 
7, Royal Arch Masons, of Newark, and 
again in 1870, and was a member of Damas- 
cus Commandery, Knights Templar, of 
Newark. In 1891 he became a member of 
the Masonic Veterans Association of New 
Jersey. 

Mr. Lockward married, October 5, 1871, 
Anna M. Crane, daughter of Zenas C. and 
Mary (Harrison) Crane, thus establishing 
connections with some of the oldest fam- 



10 





/jrfT^^^'^j-j'A'J^JJ'^y^ryi'JfJJi^ . 



0(^1^^^ &. ^. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ilies in the State. Mrs. Lockward's ances- 
tors were, indeed, among the original set- 
tlers in that part of New Jersey, coming 
from Connecticut in l666, and settling in 
the neighborhood of Newark, where they 
bought their land directly from the Indians. 
Mr. and Mrs. Lockward had three sons, 
two of whom survive their father. They 
were Lewis Gibson, born August 7, 1872, 
died December 28, 1875 ; Robert Crane, 
born June 19, 1874; Lynn Grover, born 
June 15, 1878. 

Mr. Lockward died on February 13, 
1913, in the seventy-fourth year of his age. 
In his death Caldwell mourns the loss of 
one of her leading and most public spirit- 
ed citizens. 



PEMBERTON, Samuel Hall, 

Civil War Veteran, Public Official. 

It is certainly within the province of true 
history to commemorate and perpetuate tlie 
lives of those men whose careers have been 
of signal usefulness and honor to the city 
and State in which they resided, and in 
this connection it is not only compatible, 
but absolutely imperative, that mention 
should be made of Samuel Hall Pemberton, 
late of Newark, New Jersey, who was of 
English descent, but devoted himself to the 
service of this country with a degree of 
patriotism worthy of emulation. 

William M. Pemberton, his father, was 
born in Birmingham, England, emigrated 
to America in 1829, and made his home in 
Bloomfield, New Jersey, for about two 
years. He then removed to Waterbury, 
Connecticut, and finally settled in the State 
of New Jersey, where he resided until his 
death. In England he had been a major in 
the army, and he was a gold plater by occu- 
pation. He married Mary Hall. 

Samuel Hall Pemberton was born in 
Waterbury, Connecticut, February 2^, 
1837, and died in Newark, New Jersey, 
January 3, 1903. His education was ac- 
quired in the schools of his native town and 



at the Oxford Boarding School. He re- 
moved to Newark, New Jersey, at the same 
time as his parents, and there learned the 
jewelry trade with Palmer Richardson & 
Company, from whom he went to Ailing 
Brothers, in the same line of business, and 
remained with them for a period of twen- 
ty-five years. At the outbreak of the Civil 
War he enlisted, and was mustered into 
Company A, First Regiment New Jersey 
Volunteer Infantry, April 30, 186 1. Sep- 
tember 3, 1862, he was enrolled a member 
of Company C, Twenty-sixth Regiment, 
New Jersey Volunteer Infantry, mustered 
in September 18, 1862, and mustered out 
June 27, 1863, having been captain of this 
company. From the time of attaining his 
majority he had been an active worker in 
the interests of the Republican party. In 
course of time he was elected to the office 
of City Clerk, served in this eight years, 
and was then appointed to a position in the 
tax office, of which he was the incumbent 
until his death. In 1896, when the Demo- 
cratic party came into power, Mr. Pember- 
ton was removed from office, but he car- 
ried the matter to the courts, and was re- 
instated under the Veteran Act. He was 
held in high esteem by all in the commun- 
ity, and at the time of his funeral services, 
all the municipal offices were closed. He 
was a member of Lincoln Post, No. 11, 
Grand Army of the Republic ; Newark 
Lodge, No. 7, Free and Accepted Masons ; 
and the Northern Republican Club. 

Mr. Pemberton married, October 26, 
1864, Jane Root, of Waterbury, Connecti- 
cut, and they were blessed with one child : 
Lillian, who married Thomas Austin Bald- 
win. The death of Mr. Pemberton left a 
gap in the community not easily filled. He 
was a man of broad outlook on life, and 
of the most generous and liberal views. His 
personality was modest and unassuming, 
notwithstanding the success he had achiev- 
ed, and he never varied from the quiet 
mode of life he had early chosen. Genial 
and tactful, his intercourse with his friends 



III 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



and subordinates was always marked with 
esteem and consideration, and he won their 
affection as well as their respect. 



CADMUS, Stephen Van Cortlandt, 

Civil 'War Veteran, Excellent Citizen. 

Well known in the business and social 
world of Newark, New Jersey, for many 
years, was Stephen Van Cortlandt Cadmus, 
whose life history most happily illustrates 
what may be obtained by faithful and con- 
tinued effort in devotion to an honest pur- 
pose. Integrity, activity and energy wcie 
characteristic of his disposition, and his pa- 
triotism was of an ardent and enduring 
kind. He was a descendant of a family whose 
earlier members had fought in the Revolu- 
tion, the American progenitor of the family 
coming to this country from Holland. 

Thomas Jefferson Cadmus, father of 
Stephen Van Cortlandt Cadmus, was a 
famous architect of his day, one of the 
works he executed being the older portion 
of the Capitol at Albany. New York. Upon 
the completion of this work he went to 
Illinois, then to Wisconsin, where his death 
occurred. He married Elizabeth Garrison, 
a member of a family who had lived on the 
banks of the Hudson many years, and who 
took an active part in the Civil War. The 
family later resided at Bellevue, New Jer- 
sey, near Newark, from which sections the 
sons enlisted during the Civil War. 

Stephen Van Cortlandt Cadmus was born 
in Schenectady, New York, June 8, 1838, 
and died at his home in Newark, New Jer- 
sey, in 1901. He acquired his education 
in the public schools of his native town, 
then went to Illinois with his mother, to 
join his father, making the trip by way of 
the Erie canal. He learned the trade of 
engraving, but his pursuit of this art was 
interrupted by his participation in the Civil 
War. He enlisted in Company H, Second 
Regiment New Jersey Volunteer Infantry, 
as did also his brothers Henry and Jeffer- 
son, and his brothers-in-law George R. 

112 



Hard and WiUiam Russ. Mr. Cadmus en- 
listed for three years, then re-enlisted, and 
served until the close of the war. He was 
wounded several times, and was sunstruck 
at the battle of Bull Run. At the close of 
the war he entered the employ of John H. 
Bently, as an engraver, and remained at this 
occupation, until impaired vision obliged 
bin: to retire. He was a member of the 
Royal Arcanum, and of the local post. 
Grand Army of the Republic. His intensely 
patriotic spirit remained with him to the end 
of his life, and at an advanced age he 
would still drive to the cemetery on Decora- 
tion Day to take part in the memorial ser- 
vices. 

Mr. Cadmus married, June 15, 1865, 
Emilie Victor L'Aigle, whose father, a na- 
tive of France, was in the government ser- 
vice there, and then came to America, locat- 
ed at Newark, New Jersey, and died there. 
Children : Grace Louise, Gertrude Isabella, 
Mildred Emilie. 



COOKE, Watts, 

Leader in Important Industries. 

While the race is not always to the swift 
nor the battle to the strong, the inevitable 
law of destiny accords to tireless energy, 
industry and ability a successful career. 
The truth of this assertion was abundantly 
verified in the life of the late Watts Cooke, 
who for many years was prominent in rail- 
road and manufacturing circles. Through 
his well directed efforts he attained a posi- 
tion of distinction, not only along the lines 
of industrial activity, but by reason of his 
marked loyalty and devotion to the public 
good. Mr. Cooke gained the highest regard 
of all with whom he associated. 

Watts Cooke was born in Matteawan, 
Dutchess county. New York, November 29, 
1833, ^ son of Watts and Lavinia (Donald- 
son ) Cooke. He attended the common 
schools of his native place, later accompany- 
ing his parents to Paterson, New Jersey, 
where he also pursued a course of study 




f\f'5^^s»xV. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



in the school adjacent to his home. Being 
thus well equipped, he entered upon an 
active business career, his first employment 
being in the shops of the Rogers Locomo- 
tive Works in Paterson, where he learned 
the trade of locomotive builder, but he left 
prior to the expiration of his term of ap- 
prenticeship, next entering the employ of 
Dan forth, Cooke & Company, locomotive 
builders, of which firm his brother, John 
Cooke, was a member. While in this em- 
ploy, he was sent as an expert to Scranton, 
Pennsylvania, to place in commission and 
adjust the first coal burning locomotive in 
use, the same having been built at the works 
in Paterson with which he was connected. 
He performed this difficult task in an ex- 
ceedingly satisfactory manner, gaining for 
himself the commendation and approval of 
his superiors in the works. At this time 
he was offered the position of master me- 
chanic by Mr. D. H. Dotterer, superintend- 
ent of the Lackawanna railroad, which of- 
fice he accepted, performing the duties 
thereof in a highly creditable manner, rec- 
ognition of his service being shown in his 
advancement to the position of superintend- 
ent of the railroad, under the command of 
Mr. John H. Brisbin, then president of the 
road. After serving in that capacity for a 
number of years, his tenure of office being 
noted for efficiency and faithfulness to duty, 
he was appointed superintendent of rolling 
stock, in which position he served until his 
resignation from the corporation, which was 
accepted with reluctance on the part of those 
most concerned. 

Mr. Cooke then organized the Passaic 
Rolling Mills, erecting the plant in Paterson, 
New Jersey, first manufacturing iron and 
finally steel, which was a successful enter- 
prise from the beginning, gaining in volume 
of business and importance with each pass- 
ing year, becoming in course of time one 
of the leading industries of that thriving 
city. Among the many contracts awarded 
to the concern was the building of a large 
part of the elevated railroad and the Wash- 

I 

n-8 



ington Bridge in New York City, both of 
which stand as monuments to his skill and 
ability along these lines. He was a thor- 
ough master of all that pertained to con- 
struction work, possessing a constructive 
mind, which added to natural mechanical 
genius, and a wide and varied experience, 
made him a leader in that particular field 
of endeavor. He possessed all the qualifi- 
cations of an employer, having a strong 
sense of fairness, dealing with his employees 
as though they were men, not mere ma- 
chines, and thus kept in close touch with 
them, avoiding in this way the strikes so 
common in these days. He was respected 
and esteemed by all over whom he had 
control, they recognizing in him the char- 
acteristics of a true man. 

Mr. Cooke, throughout his entire busi- 
ness career, was looked upon as a man of 
integritv and honor, fulfilling all his obliga- 
tions, and standing as an example of what 
determination and force, combined with the 
highest degree of business ability, can ac- 
complish. In early life Mr. Cooke held 
membership in the Second Presbyterian 
Church of Paterson, but later he joined with 
Mr. G. J. A. Coulson in the organization of 
the East Side Presbyterian Church, to 
which he thereafter gave liberally of his 
time and substance. In politics he was al- 
ways a staunch Republican, taking an ac- 
tive interest in the councils of his party, but 
never aspiring to more than local office, in 
which he served with exceptional ability, 
preferring to devote his time and attention 
to his business pursuits. He was an ac- 
tive factor in community affairs, and his 
worth as a man and citizen were widely 
acknowledged. Aside from his home life, 
which was ideal, he having been an affec- 
tionate husband and devoted father, he de- 
rived his greatest pleasure from traveling, 
which he did to a large extent, and in en- 
tertaining in his home, he being particularly 
fond of having young people there, taking a 
keen pleasure and interest in their pursuits. 

Mr. Cooke married, on May i, 1856, 



13 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Emma C. Kressler, of Philadelphia, Penn- 
sylvania, a daughter of David K. and Eliza 
(Felfinger) Kressler. She spent her early 
days in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Children 
of Mr. and Mrs. Cooke: i. John K., mar- 
ried Anna Louise Thorne; he is deceased. 
2. Anna Belle, who became the wife of 
Albert C. Fairchild. 3. Elizabeth Britton, 
who became the wife of Robert B. Coulson. 
4. Emma Dora, who became the wife of 
Frederick F. Searing. 5. Edward Payson, 
married Georgie Utley MacRae. 6. Oakley 
Watts, married Emily S. Hopper. The 
family home is at No. 728 East Twenty- 
fifth street, Paterson, New Jersey. 

Mr. Cooke died September 25, 1900, la- 
mented and mourned by all who had the 
honor of his acquaintance, and left behind 
hitn the priceless heritage of an honored 
name, which is far better than great wealtli. 
As he lived, so he died, always actuated 
by a spirit of love and duty, and he com- 
manded the respect and esteem of all with 
whom he came in contact during his active 
and useful career. 



HUNT, Sylvester Henry, A.M., M.D., 

Physician, Surgeon, Philanthropist. 

In the medical and other professional 
circles of the State of New Jersey, the 
name of Dr. Sylvester Henry Hunt has al- 
ways been held in the highest esteem as 
that of a man who has done much to furth- 
er the interests of the medical profession. 
He was a son of Henry and Ann Eliza 
(Marston) Hunt, the former at one time a 
wholesale druggist, of Troy. New York, 
where the family resided for some time. 

Dr. Sylvester Henry Hunt was born in 
Troy, Rensselaer county. New York, June 
21, 1837, and died in New Jersey, May 5, 
1891. For some years he was a pupil in 
the public schools of Troy, then attended 
the Lansingburgh Academy, where he ob- 
tained his classical education. He was but 
fourteen years of age when he was thrown 
upon his own resources, owing to the im- 



paired health and business failure of his 
father. Nothing daunted, he continued his 
studies at night school while serving an ap- 
prenticeship of two years, then entered 
Charlotteville Seminary, where, in the 
course of one and a half years, he prepared 
himself for entrance into Union College. 
Circumstances combined to prevent his 
carrying out this idea, and he went to Free- 
hold, and there commenced teaching school, 
the results he achieved being so satisfactory 
that, when he left this town, he had charge 
of the Freehold Academy. He earned high 
commendation while pursuing this career, 
his work being characterized by the thor- 
oughness which was a distinguishing mark ■ 
of his character. In the fall and winter of ^ 
1862 he attended lectures at the College of 
Physicians and Surgeons, in New York 
City, and the following spring successfully 
passed his examination for the post of 
medical cadet in the LTnited States army. 
He received a year's appointment to Had- 
dington Army Hospital, and having attend- 
ed lectures at the Jefferson Medical C*")]- 
lege, Philadelphia, during the winter of this 
year, was awarded his degree of Doctor of 
Medicine by this institution. Early in 1864 
he was appointed assistant surgeon in the 
Fifth United States Veteran Volunteers, 
First Corps, this being under the command 
of General Winfield S. Hancock, and re- 
mained in the service until one year after 
the close of the war. During this year he 
was mainly engaged in detailed duty. He 
was the medical officer in charge of the 
Battery Barracks, New York City, during 
the winter of 1865-66, and at that time 
completed his third course at the College of 
Physicians and Surgeons. The honorary 
degree of Master of Arts was later con- 
ferred on Dr. Hunt bv Claflin University. In 
the spring of 1866 Dr. Hunt resigned his 
army commission and established himself 
in the practice of his profession at Eaton- 
town, New Jersey, and followed it there 
successfully for a period of fifteen years. 
He removed to Long Branch, Monmouth 



114 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



county, New Jersey, in the fall of 1881, 
and resided there until his death. His ex- 
cellent reputation had preceded him, and 
almost from the outset of his residence in 
Long Branch, Dr. Hunt had a large and 
lucrative practice. He won the affection as 
well as the confidence of his numerous pa- 
tients, by his ready sympathy, and the truly 
human interest in their troubles. He was 
not merely the skillful physician, but also 
the wise counselor and the sincere friend, 
and this endeared him to the hearts of all. 
The improvement of existing conditions al- 
ways engaged the especial attention of Dr. 
Hunt, and he was the leading spirit in the 
organization of the Monmouth Memorial 
Hospital, of which he was president at the 
time of his death. For a long time he 
served as president of the Long Branch 
Board of Health, and in this office exerted 
a marked influence in securing an improved 
sewage system for this district. He was 
a member of the Masonic fraternity, the 
State Medical Society of New Jersey, the 
New Jersey Microscopical Society and the 
Monmouth County Medical Society. His 
religius affiliation was with the Methodist 
Church, and his political support was giv- 
en to the Republican party. In his earlier 
years he had been of a thin and wiry figure, 
but in later years he increased in stature 
until he weighed three hundrd pounds, and 
was a man of fine, stately bearing. 

Dr. Hunt married, at Eatontown, May 
26, 1870, Elizabeth S., daughter of John 
C. and Elizabeth (Swan) Parker, and they 
became the parents of children as follows : 
Alice C. L., born May 27, 1871, who died 
in 1877; Mollie P., born October 4, 1872, 
died in 1883 ; Sylvester Henry, Jr., born 
February 3, 1879. Dr. Hunt was a con- 
spicuous example of success earned by his 
own talents and industry, and as a citizen 
he was no less worthy of the esteem and 
respect he won. No good cause for the 
betterment of the unfortunate but received 
his generous support, and the community 



had in him an exemplar of all the virtues 
of a good citizen. 



DOUGLAS, Frederick S., 
Monafactiirer, Financier, Philanthropist. 

The men of deeds are the men whom the 
world delights to honor, and the man who, 
out of the resources at his command, cre- 
ates something which is of benefit to the 
world at large, is a man of this caliber. 
How to add to the happiness of the world 
is the main idea in the minds of such men 
as the late Frederick S. Douglas, of Newark, 
New Jersey, who occupied a prominent posi- 
tion in manufacturing, commercial and 
financial circles. 

Frederick S. Douglas, who was a son 
of Samuel and Elizabeth (Rocker fellow) 
Douglas, was born in Newark, New Jer- 
sey, October 31, 1844. He entered the 
public schools of the city at the usual age 
and was graduated from the high school 
in the class of 1861. After a slight pre- 
liminary experience he became associated 
with his uncle, Mr. L'Hommedieu, in the 
stationery business, with which he was con- 
nected until 1866. He then formed a busi- 
ness partnership with Joseph H. Shafer, for 
the purpose of manufacturing jewelry, and 
met with decided success in the conduct 
of this enterprise. He was personally in- 
terested in a number of other business ven- 
tures, among them being the following: 
Director of the National Newark Bank, 
also of the Firemen's Insurance Company ; 
president of the Jeweler's Association of the 
city of New York, and of the Newark 
Rosendale Cement Company. He was very 
active in the interests of the Young Men's 
Christian Association, and made it a per- 
sonal matter to assist those young men who 
were obliged to make their homes with 
strangers. 

Mr. Douglas married, June 10, 1868, Jane 
Wilson, born November 9, 1874, a daughter 
of StaflFord Robert Wilson and Catherine 



"5 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Chittenden (Woodruff) Heath, and a lineal 
descendant of Thomas Woodrove or Wood- 
reeve, who lived in the reign of Henry VII, 
and of his descendant, John Woodroff , \ 'ho 
came to America about 1639 and became 
the American progenitor of the Woodruff 
family. Mr. and Mrs. Douglas had chil- 
dren: I. Stafford Heath, born June 22, 
1871, died December 31, 1877. 2. Fred- 
erick Heath, born March 12, 1878; he mar- 
ried Edith Rossiter, and they have had chil- 
dren : Elizabeth, born March 9, 1909, and 
Janet, born June 3, 191 1. 

The death of Mr. Douglas, which oc- 
curred suddenly at The Hague, June 7, 
1898, was regarded as a great ca- 
lamity throughout the city of New- 
ark and in many other places. Practically 
throughout his life he had been connected 
with the Bureau of Associated Charities. 
and had been a personal worker in its be- 
half. It was not alone that he gave liberal- 
ly of his time and means, and his personal 
efforts in this cause were of far-reaching 
effect. He was a member of the Dutch 
Reformed Church of Newark, and was a 
generous contributor to the city and nation- 
al churches. A devoted lover of fine arts, 
he was especially fond of music, and for a 
period of twenty years was organist in the 
Clinton Avenue Reformed Church. As a 
citizen Mr. Douglas was esteemed by all, 
and always sustained the character of a 
true, Christian gentlemen. Principles of the 
strictest integrity were the foundation of all 
his business transactions, and every trust 
was carried out with fidelity. 



WALKER, John A., 

Ifannfactnrer, Enterprising Citizen. 

The name of Walker is one which is well 
known, not alone in Jersey City, New Jer- 
sey, but in every corner of the civilized 
world. It is closely identified with some 
of the most important industries of recent 
years, and the members of this family have 
been noted for their general excellent busi- 

I 



ness qualities, and for their humanitarian 
ideas in every direction. These superlative- 
ly fine traits have been transmitted in full 
measure to the late John A. Walker, who, 
all his life, did much to further the interests 
of the community in which he resided. I 

John A. Walker was born in New York 
City, of Scotch parents, September 22, 1837, 
and died at his home in Jersey City, New 
Jersey, on May 23d, 1907. His elementary 
education was acquired in the public 
schools of Brooklyn, New York, af- 
ter which he was prepared for entrance 
to college at a private school. A business 
life, however, appealed to him more strong- 
ly than the years he would be obliged to 
devote to study were he to enter college, 
and at the time of the outbreak of the Civil 
War, he had already acquired some reputa- 
tion in the business world of New York. 
He gave his services whole-heartedly to the 
cause of his country, as he did everything 
else, and when this war had been terminat- 
ed, Mr. Walker again turned his attention 
to business pursuits. In 1867 he became 
associated with the firm of Joseph Dixon 
& Company, in Jersey City, manufacturers 
of graphite products, and this connection 
was imbroken until his death. He removed 
his residence to Jersey City, about this time, 
and there made his permanent home. In 
1868 the firm was incorporated, becoming 
the Joseph Dixon Crucible Company, of 
which Mr. Walker was secretary and man- 
ager, a dual office he filled until 1891. In 
that year he was unanimously elected by his 
associates as vice-president and treasurer, 
he having practically filled the latter posi- 
tion for a considerable length of time. He 
discharged the duties of these two oflfices 
during the remainder of his life, in addition 
to assisting in the general management of 
the concern. It was owing to his executive 
ability, which was of an unusually high 
order, that the affairs of the company, 
which were in a very unsatisfactory condi- 
tion when they were entrusted to his hands, 
were placed on a very satisfactory founda- 



16 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



tion, in a comparatively short .time, and 
the concern now has a world-wide reputa- 
tion. 

Mr. Walker was one of that class of men 
who recognize the full value of every mo- 
ment, and never allow one to remain idle. 
Although the business spoken of made 
many demands upon his time and attention, 
this but appeared to inspire him to further 
effort, and he was actively identified with 
a number of other leading enterprises. 
Among these may be mentioned : Vice-pres- 
ident of the Colonial Life Insurance Com- 
pany ; director in the New Jersey Title and 
Guarantee Company, Pavonia Trust Com- 
pany, and Provident Institution for Sav- 
ings ; president of the Children's Friend So- 
ciety, all these of Jersey City ; trustee of the 
Stationers' Board of Trade, of New York ; 
vice-president of the National Stationers' 
and Manufacturers' Association ; was a 
member of the Chamber of Commerce of 
New York, and of the Board of Trade of 
Jersey City ; chairman of the executive com- 
mittee of the Cosmos Club of Jersey City ; 
member of the Carteret and the Union 
League clubs of Jersey City, and the Lin- 
coln Association, of the same place ; mem- 
ber of the National Geographic Society : 
associate member of the American Institute 
of Mining Engineers, and of the Society 
for Psychical Research. In political mat- 
ters Mr. Walker gave his undivided sup- 
port to the Republican party. He never 
aspired to public office, although he was 
frequently tendered it. The only instances 
in which he made an exception to this was 
in the cause of education, in which he was 
deeply interested. He was a member of the 
Jersey City Board of Education twice, be- 
ing chosen president of that honorable body 
during his period of service, and he also 
held office as one of the trustees of the 
Jersey City Public Library. He excelled 
as a writer, and would undoubtedly have 
made his mark in the world of literature, 
had he chosen to devote his mental powers 
to that field. He was a born orator, and 

I 



was in frequent demand as a public speaker 
on important occasions. 

The "Colonial News," the official organ 
of the Colonial Life Insurance Company of 
America, devoted its entire first page of 
the issue which was published shortly after 
the death of Mr. Walker to an article en- 
titled "His Words Abide," which reported 
some of the speeches of Mr. Walker. It 
also printed the following letter, written bj 
the manager of the above-mentioned com- 
pany to the president of the same corpora- 
tion : 

"New Brunswick, N. J., May 27, 1907. 
"Ernest J. Heppenheimer, Esq., President: 

"Dear Sir : — While the Company is to be con- 
gratulated upon almost reaching its tenth anni- 
versary without a visitation of death among us, 
its officers, still it will be more than acknowl- 
edged, when the grim reaper did appear, he aimed 
high and hit a shining mark when he gathered ta 
his fathers the gentle, ennobling, inspiring John 
A. Walker, Second Vice-President of the Com- 
pany. The writer learned much from his char- 
acter. He was as sweet as country cream. His 
eyes, his face, his words seem before me and I 
think I can still hear his gentle, simple words — 
"without malice," pointing the road to success. 
He was a worker, and worked in sympathy with 
all mankind, for he was a believer in the free 
and equal. When his remains are committed to 
mother earth, no sweeter sod was ever trod by 
man than the one that will cover John A. Walk- 
er. With sincere sympathy and respect, I am, 
"Respectfully, 
"(Signed) J. Hughes, Manager." 

The official announcement of the death 
of Mr. Walker was made to the field force 
of the Colonial Life by its president, E. J. 
Heppenheimer, and one cannot but mark 
its sad eloquence : 

"Hardly past the threshold of our tenth year 
and grateful for the unusual immunity a kind 
Providence has thus far bestowed on the official 
family of this company, it becomes my sad duty 
to announce the death of our much beloved sec- 
ond ,vice-president, John A. Walker. * * * 
The members of the field staff, who will long re- 
member his genial presence at our annual con- 
ventions, which he invariably attended, though 
often with great danger to his health, will re- 
ceive this sad intelligence with profound sorrow. 



17 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



To the officers and directors of this Company, in 
whose councils his opinions and judgment were 
accorded deserved respect, the death of John A. 
Walker comes as a great personal loss." 

A noted biographer wrote of Mr. Walker 
as follows: 

"In intellect he was keen, clear, critical, intui- 
tive. In business he was thoughtful, cautious in 
looking ahead and preparing for emergencies. 
He had what is known as a wiry organization. 
His moral brain made him a just man. He was 
of the staunch Presbyterian school. What he be- 
lieved to be right he did — no matter what others 
might do or say. Yet he was not contrary, nor 
set in his ways, nor unreasonable. While his 
sympathies were keen and easily aroused, and 
his hand ready to open, yet no one found him 
wasting anything. He was shrewd, energetic, 
liberal minded, and greatly enjoyed a good joke 
and plenty of fun in its place. Nothing escaped 
his eye." 



MYERS, James Lawrence, 

Noted Money Expert, Ideal Citizen. 

In the career of the late James Law- 
rence Myers, of Elizabeth, New Jersey, we 
find many points well worthy of emulation. 
He was equally well known in the business 
and social life of the cities with which he 
was connected, and had gained a reputation 
second to none. Both nature and education 
had well qualified him for the arduous hne 
of business he had chosen as his vocation. 
Himself a typical example of that keen and 
large-minded business man who carries the 
weight of aflfairs of the utmost importance, 
he was ever ready to undertake another 
burden, if by so doing he might by deed or 
example benefit or further any movement 
pointing towards the betterment of indus- 
trial or municipal conditions. 

James Lawrence Myers, son of William 
T. Myers, was born in Philadelphia, in 
1847, aid died at his home in Elizabeth, 
New Jersey. He was educated in the pub- 
lic schools of his native city, being gradu- 
ated from the high school, and was engaged 
in business there until he was twenty-five 
years of age. He then came to New York 



City, in order to increase his business ex- 
perience, and there became associated with 
the firm of Handy & Harman, who were 
leading brokers on the Stock Exchange. 
Mr. Myers became well known on Wall 
street. New York City, being considered 
one of the greatest coin and money experts 
in the country. He was frequently consult- 
ed by others, and his opinion considered au- 
thoritative. Banks, and even the United 
States Treasury, called him in consultation. 
The cause of education always had his lib- 
eral support, and he was a member of the 
board of trustees of the Pingry School in 
Elizabeth, at the time of his death. He Vvfas 
a devout member of the Westminster 
Church, and contributed liberally to the 
support of that institution. He was a mem- 
ber of the Viking Boat Club, and filled (he 
dual office of captain and vice-president in 
that organization ; he was also a member of 
the Mattano Club, and the Elizabeth Ath- 
letic Club, being especially active in the last 
mentioned. He removed to Elizabeth, New 
Jersey, about 1879. and at the time of his 
death was living at No. 840 Broad street, 
where his widow and children are still le- 
siding. 

Mr. Myers married Amelia O. Allen, and 
had children : Cornelius T. ; Allen F., mar- 
ried ; Mary H., married ; James L. ; Mar- 
garet F. 



HOWE, Dr. Edwin Jenkins, 

Physician, Man of Broad Charity. 

A well known member of the profession 
of medicine was Dr. Edwin Jenkins Howe, 
who was born in Orange, New Jersey, July 
2, 1849, and was found dead in his bed in 
his home at No. 22 East Kinney street, on 
the morning of March 14, 1905. 

Rev. John Mofifat Howe, M.D., father 
of Dr. Edwin Jenkins Howe, was noted as 
a dentist, and gained an especial reputation 
as a local preacher in the Methodist Epis- 
copal Church. He married Emeline Barn- 
ard, a daughter of Barzillai and Susan 



118 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



(Barnard) Jenkins. Major Bezaleel 
Howe, grandfather of the Dr. Howe of 
this sketch, served in the Continental army 
seven years, and in the United States army, 
as it was known after the Revolution, for 
a period of fourteen years. He was an 
auxiliary lieutenant in the Life Guards of 
General George Washington, and a mem- 
ber of the commander-in-chief's army fam- 
ily during the last years of the Revo- 
lutionary struggle. At the close of the war, 
while he was still holding the rank of cap- 
tain, he was in command of the escort 
which took the baggage and papers of Gen- 
eral Washington from New York to Mount 
Vernon. In the rooms of the New Jersey 
Historical Society in Newark, New Jersey, 
there is on file Washington's letter to Cap- 
tain Howe, a document covering three 
pages of foolscap, giving full instruction 
concerning the transportation of the bag- 
gage. Captain Howe was retired with the 
rank of major after twenty-one years of 
continuous service. 

The name of Howe was written How, as 
shown in the Lake country of England. Da 
La Howe was originally the name of the 
family when it came over with William the 
Conqueror, and it meant, as then written, 
literally "from the hills." It was Major 
Howe who added the final "e" to the name, 
and this spelling has been retained by the 
succeeding generations. Dr. Howe's father 
was one of the first members of the State 
Board of Education, and was active in the 
establishment of the State Normal School. 
The first of the family to settle in this 
country was John How, who came here in 
1635, and was the first settler in Marlboro, 
Massachusetts. One of his sons was Colo- 
nel Thomas Howe, the great-grandfather 
of Major Bezaleel Howe, mentioned above. 
Many of this family have distinguished 
themselves in military and professional 
life. 

Dr. Edwin Jenkins Howe spent his 
early childhood in the city of New York, 
although the vacations were passed at the 
summer home of the family in the Oranges, 

119 



New Jersey. Later the family removed to 
Passaic, New Jersey, where Dr. Howe 
completed his preparatory education. Hav- 
ing decided to make the practice of medi- 
cine his life work, Dr. Howe prepared for 
college at the Wilbraham, Massachusetts, 
Academy, and then became a student at the 
Wesleyan University at Middletown, Con- 
necticut, from which he was graduated in 
the class of 1870. He next matriculated at 
the College of Physicians and Surgeons, 
New York City, from which he was gradu- 
ated with honor in the class of 1873. He 
had become greatly interested in the Home- 
opathic School of Medicine, followed this 
line of study, and was graduated from the 
Homeopathic College. His hospital prac- 
tice was obtained in the city of New York, 
where he served an interneship of one year, 
and in 1876 he established himself in the 
practice of his profession in Newark, with 
which he was successfully identified for 
many years. In many respects he was a 
leader along the lines of homeopathic prac- 
tice, served as an early president of the 
Homeopathic Society of New Jersey, read 
many papers on a variety of topics that 
were of interest to the medical profession 
and was a liberal contributor to medical 
publications. 

Dr. Howe took the natural interest of a 
good citizen in all matters connected with 
political afifairs, giving his support to the 
Republican party, but neither desired nor 
held a political office. Educational matters 
had his hearty support, and he accomplish- 
ed excellent results as a member of the 
board of trustees of the Newark Academy. 
He was a member of the Sons of the .Amer- 
ican Revolution, the Essex Club and the 
New Jersey Historical Society. He was an 
efficient and consistent worker in the inter- 
ests of the Central Methodist Church, in 
which he held an official position for years, 
and was also superintendent of the Sunday 
school. 

Dr. Howe married, November 18, 1875, 
Sarah Louise, a daughter of Henry and 
Sarah Simmons, of Passaic, and they had 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



no children to survive them. Mrs. Howe 
was an invaUd for many years. Dr. Howe 
was a man of courage and sincerity in his 
profession, and won the esteem of his 
brethren in the medical fraternity. He was 
well informed upon the leading topics of 
the day as well as on matters connected 
with his professional work, and his efforts 
were always on the side of improving ex- 
isting conditions. He practiced warm- 
hearted charity in thought, work and deed, 
and always displayed an ability more than 
adequate for all he undertook. As a phy- 
sician he effected some remarkable cures, 
and he had the affection, as well as the con- 
fidence, of his numerous patients. 



HAMILL, Edward Holman, M.D., 
Soldier, Physician, Poet. 

Dr. Edward Holman Hamill was born in 
the parsonage of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church South at Talladega, Alabama, Octo- 
ber 25, 1843. He was the son of Rev. Ed- 
ward Joseph Hamill, an eminent clergyman 
of the South, and Anne J. Simmons, daugh- 
ter of Colonel Simmons, of Georgia. 

At the age of twelve he chose as his life 
work the profession in which afterwards 
he became distinguished. He was prepared 
for college at the John's Academy, Tus- 
kegee, and at Professor Slaton's Academy, 
Auburn, Alabama, and entered East Ala- 
bama College, which has since become the 
Alabama Polytechnic Institute. The out- 
break of the Civil War interrupted his col- 
legiate course, and he entered the Confed- 
erate army in 1861. He continued in the 
service with credit to himself and the State 
until the close of the strife. He was first 
appointed regimental quartermaster-ser- 
geant and later became a first lieutenant. 
He was present in all the important battles 
of the West under the command of Genei- 
als Johnson, Bragg and Hood. 

At the close of his military career in 
1865 he began the study of medicine with 
Drs. Reed and Drake, of Auburn, Alabama. 
He entered the medical department of the 

120 



University of New York, from which he 
graduated in 1868 with the first honors of 
his class. His thesis on "The Practise of 
Medicine in Renal Urinalysis and Renal 
Pathology" elicited high commendation by 
the profession. He practiced medicine on 
Long Island, New York, until 1876, when 
he moved to Jacksonville, Illinois, and con- 
tinued his practice there. In the year 1886 
he accepted the position of assistant medi- 
cal director in the Prudential Life Insur- 
ance Company, Newark, New Jersey, and 
subsequently became the chief medical di- 
rector. 

The Doctor was a man of impressive per- 
sonality, strong mentality and inflexible 
purpose. He was in active sympathy with 
every movement in the community which 
made for righteousness. He was an effec- 
tive public speaker, a wise counselor, and 
a man of commanding influence not only 
within the circle of his profession but also 
in the Church and State. He was liberal 
in his judgment of men, but exacted the 
most open sincerity. His benefactions were 
as large as his modesty which concealed 
them from public applause. His personal 
endowments commanded attention and 
many important interests were entrusted to 
his care, all of which he handled with fi- 
delity and ability. 

He was an ardent Master Mason, and 
was connected with South Side Lodge, 
New York ; St. John's, Newark, New Jer- 
sey ; the Mystic Shrine and Mecca Temple 
of New York. He was a member of sev- 
eral medical associations in New York, Illi- 
nois and New Jersey. For two years he 
was president of the Suffolk County Medi- 
cal Association, New York. He was also 
president (1902-1904) of the Association 
of Life Insurance Directors of the United 
States and Canada. He was an active mem- 
ber of the Microscopical Society of Essex 
county. New Jersey : the Practitioners' 
Club, the Roseville Athletic Association, 
and the Lincoln Club, of Newark. New Jer- 
sey. His published articles were on med- 
ical matters relating to life insurance. He 




^^. A.^^/«a«« i£^i-^-ji/:yr 



Cr:?^3<^^t-<^ 



a^^ 



^^^^^.^^^ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



occasionally wrote some exquisite verses 
which his friends highly prize because they 
emit the fragrance of his inner life which 
captivated the hearts of all who were ad- 
mitted in the sacred circle of his personal 
friendships. 

Dr. Hamill was married, October 25, 
1870, at Bay Shore, New York, to Miss 
Emma Josephine, daughter of Seth Rogers 
and Eliza Wicks (Hawkins) Clock. They 
had but one child, a son of brilliant promise 
who was born October 25, 1875, and sud- 
denly passed away August 5, 1890. 

The Doctor was for many years connect- 
ed with the Methodist Episcopal Church, in 
which he held responsible official position 
and was especially active in Sunday school 
work. During the last few years of his 
life his health was seriously impaired and 
he moved to the borough of Chatham, New 
Jersey, where he erected a beautiful home 
overlooking the green hills, symbols of the 
Everlasting, which he dearly loved. At 
Chatham he connected himself with the 
Congregational Church which stood on the 
elevation near his residence, and was a reg- 
ular worshipper there when his physical 
condition permitted. 

Though fully aware of the hopeless char- 
acter of his ailment, he was never despond- 
ent, always living in the cheer of a prospec- 
tive long life. "How," said he, "can one 
who is deathless contemplate with dread 
what men call death, which really is only 
a step onward in our continuous life?" For 
many months he combatted his disease with 
a physician's skill and a hero's courage, but 
succumbed at last on the night of October 
29, 1910, when he calmly bade adieu to his 
beloved wife and fell asleep, confidently ex- 
pecting the dawn of the Eternal Day. 



CREVELING, Augustus, 

Progressive Business Man. 

One of the most energetic and progres- 
sive business men of Jersey City, New Jer- 



late Augustus Creveling, whose broad 
views, sound judgment and remarkable ex- 
ecutive ability, had gained for him a prom- 
inent position in the business world. He 
was the son of A. W. and Adelaide (Bau- 
din) Creveling, and was born in Washing- 
ton, Warren county, New Jersey, in 1852, 
his death occurring in Jersey City, in 1898. 
Mr. Creveling received an excellent prep- 
atory education at various boarding schools, 
continued this at La Fayette College, and 
it was completed by a business course in 
the City of New York. He then engaged 
in the mercantile business in association 
with his father, and subsequently came to 
New York City, where he associated him- 
self in a partnership with William A. 
White & Son, real estate brokers, and was 
successfully identified with this firm until 
his death. In 1884 he removed to Jersey 
City, and that place was his residence from 
that time. He married Anna M. Ellison, 
a daughter of Rev. Michael E. Ellison, of 
whom further. Both he and his wife were 
members of the Park Reformed Church, 
of Jersey City, of which the Rev. Suydam, 
D.D., was the pastor for many years. Mr. 
Creveling was a member of the official 
board of the church, and was an ac- 
tive worker in all matters connected with 
the welfare of the church. In politi- 
cal matters he was an ardent Republican, 
but never cared to hold public office. His 
fraternal affiliation was with the Cosmos 
Club, the Royal Arcanum and the Order of 
Free and Accepted Masons. Mr. Creveling 
was of a very philanthropic nature, and do- 
nated generously to all worthy institutions. 



ELLISON, Rev. Michael Earle, 

Prominent Theologian and Preacher. 

Rev. Michael Earle Ellison, third son of 
Lewis and Mary Ellison, was born April 
I, 1818, near Burlington, New Jersey, and 
in early childhood removed to Summit 
Bridge, Delaware, with his parents. His 



sey, was to be found in the person of the boyhood was spent there until he entered 



121 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Pennington Seminary, as one of its first 
students. He manifested a love of knowl- 
edge and ardor in its pursuit, which with 
more than ordinary energy and self reliance 
contributed much to his development. He 
possessed a well stored mind, and could 
command its resources with great facility. 
He entered the New Jersey Conference of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1842. 
Mr. Ellison, as a theologian, was eminently 
sound and Biblical ; as a preacher, earnest, 
and evangelical ; he had a fine presence, and 
a voice of rare richness and compass ; Lis 
manner was dignified, affectionate and im- 
pressive; his preaching was of the per- 
suasive power of living words, from the 
heart to the heart. 

When the Newark Conference was form- 
ed in 1858, he was elected its secretary 
and served with great efficiency until 1870 
when he was appointed presiding elder of 
the Morristown District. His other ap- 
pointments were Parsippany Circuit, Dover, 
Orange, Haverstraw, New York, New 
Brunswick, Hoboken twice, Paterson, 
Staten Island, Morristown, St. Paul's, New- 
ark, Clinton Street, Newark, St. Paul's, 
Jersey City, Simpson, Jersey City, Wash- 
ington, Madison, while at the time of his 
death — he was presiding elder of Jersey 
City District. He was a faithful friend, 
a tender husband and father, — a noble 
Christian man. He was married in 1844 to 
Ann Whittaker, only daughter of John 
Whittaker, of Trenton, New Jersey. Two 
sons and a daughter were bom to them. 



CAMPBELL, Edward Stelle, 

Financier, Iieader in Conunnnity Affairs. 

The entire active career of Edward Stelle 
Campbell, late president of the National 
Newark Banking Company, of Newark, 
New Jersey, was distinguished by excep- 
tional business ability and sagacity. To his 
remarkably wise and intelligent direction 
was mainly due much of the success achiev- 
ed by that institution. He ever took a keen 

122 



personal interest in all of its operations, 
guiding its policies and gaining their ac- 
complishment with shrewd unerring skill. 

Mr. Campbell was born in New Bruns- 
wick, New Jersey, January 8, 1854. He 
was the son of David Freeman and Susan 
Runyon (Stelle) Campbell, and was de- 
scended from the famous Runyon family of 
revolutionary fame, the ancestors of both 
having come to this country about 1680,^ 
from Scotland and France respectively. 

Mr. Campbell attended the public schools 
of New Brunswick, being graduated from 
the high school in 1868. Two years later 
he found employment in the National Bank 
of New Jersey, in New Brunswick. Four- 
teen years were spent in this institution, 
where his reliable performance of the duties 
assigned him, and his systematic methods 
secured him advancement and, after having 
shown exceptional executive ability during 
a very trying period, he was advanced to 
the post of cashier, which position he capa- 
bly filled until 1894, at which time he was 
advanced to the vice-presidency of the in- 
stitution. This honor came to him unso- 
licited, and was a spontaneous tribute to 
his ability and a compliment as highly ap- 
preciated as it was unexpected. 

The National Newark Banking Corpora- 
tion is the oldest banking organization in 
the State of New Jersey, being founded in 
1804 by some of Newark's most representa- 
tive citizens for the purpose of doing a 
general banking and insurance business, but 
the insurance interests were abandoned 
many years ago. The Newark City Na- 
tional Bank, which was fifty years old in 
1902, was in May of that year merged 
with the National Newark Banking Corpor- 
ation, and the capital stock was increased 
to $1,000,000. This great financial institu- 
tion at the present time has a surplus and 
undivided profits of far more than that 
amount, and its depositors number about 
four thousand. Under the presidency of 
Mr. Campbell the policy of the institution 
has been progressive yet conservative. Es- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



pecial attention was given to the accounts 
of the smaller depositors, and no banking 
house enjoyed greater popularity. 

As receiver of the Middlesex County 
Bank at Perth Amboy, New Jersey, which 
had been ruined by its cashier, Mr. Camp- 
bell achieved one of his most noted tti- 
umphs and demonstrated his unusual exe- 
cutive ability. The claims allowed amount- 
ed to $508,000, with offsets of $49,000, and 
in March, 1900, Mr. Campbell, who had 
been appointed as permanent receiver by 
Vice-Chancellor Pitney, paid a dividend of 
thirty-five per cent., and in July, 1902, a 
supplementary dividend of fifteen per cent., 
was paid. By the beginning of 1904 the 
entire difficulties were practically settled, 
with the exception of a few outstandmg 
cases which would undoubtedly be settled 
in favor of the institution, and leave a bal- 
ance in its favor. When Mr. Campbell ap- 
plied for an increased allowance in this re- 
ceivership, Vice-Chancellor Pitney, in an 
oral opinion sustaining this application said 
in part : "Throughout the entire case I can- 
not find that Mr. Campbell has made a 
single mistake or has been the least bit slack 
in his duties, or that he has shown the least 
deficiency of talent. In all respects he has 
been a model receiver." Such an unsolici- 
ted tribute from the Bench was most cer- 
tainly a compliment to be highly valued and 
appreciated. 

In 1897 Mr. Campbell was a member of 
the Indianapolis National Monetary Con- 
ference, which exerted such an important 
influence on the character of the legislation 
in Congress on the subject in that year. He 
was president of the Board of Trade of 
Newark, having been unanimously elected 
in January, 1903, and his natural aptitude 
for handling vast interests was again shown 
in this office. The commerce of Newark 
and the adjoining tide-water towns was re- 
markably benefited by the measures taken 
by Mr. Campbell and the members of the 
committee of which he was the leading spir- 



it. He was connected with a number of or- 
ganizations. 

Mr. Campbell was married in 1877 to 
Elizabeth Mundy, daughter of David Ed- 
ward and Jane Elizabeth Meeker, of Brook- 
lyn, New York, where Mr. Meeker was a 
prominent lawyer until his death in No- 
vember, 1889. 

Mr. Campbell died at Lake George, New 
York, July 2, 1905. Public expressions of 
sorrow were many and fervent, and the 
press all over the country gave an unusual 
amount of space to historical and editorial 
notices of the sad event. The character of 
the man is exemplified in the resolutions 
adopted by the various corporations and 
other bodies with which he was connected, 
a few of which are appended. 

By the Board of Trade : 

"Resolved : That the members of this board 
have learned with sorrow of the sudden death of 
Edward S. Campbell, one of the most respected 
and influential members of this body, and form- 
erly its presiding officer. Coming to us from a 
neighboring city he soon impressed himself upon 
our business community and became a leader in 
financial affairs. Frank, courteous, forceful, he 
won the confidence and respect of all those with 
whom he was associated. He took a deep inter- 
est in the affairs of this board, and by his death 
we have lost one of our most efficient members 
and one of our wisest counselors. 

"Resolved : That a committee be appointed by 
the chairman to prepare a suitable minute to be 
entered upon the records of this board expres- 
sive of our sorrow and regret at his untimely 
death. 

"Resolved ; That a copy of these resolutions be 
sent by the secretary of this board to the widow 
of our deceased brother, to whom we respect- 
fully tender our sympathy in her bereavement.'" 

By the Board of Directors of the Nation- 
al Newark Banking Company: 

"This Board wishes to record on its minutes 
its sense of loss in the death of Edward S. Camp- 
bell, president of this bank, which occurred at 
Lake George, New York, on the 2nd inst., after 
a brief illness. Mr. Campbell was elected a mem- 
ber of this board, and vice-president of this 
bank, January 4, 1894, and after its consolidation 



123 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



with the Newark City National Bank in May, 
1902, he became president of the enlarged insti- 
tution. He came to the service of this tiank 
fully equipped by a strong and active youth as a 
banker, and qualified by a natural disposition 
and a finely developed character, he at once im- 
pressed his personality upon not only the direc- 
tors, but on the customers of the bank and the 
community at large. Few men have, in the short 
time of his connection with Newark affairs, 
gained a more enviable position or implanted 
themselves more firmly than he did in all that is 
best in business, in civic and in religious matters. 
His death deprives many interests of a potent 
factor for good, and his associates and friends of 
a strong and loving character. We wish to con- 
vey to his bereaved wife our most tender condo- 
lences, and direct that a copy of this minute be 
engrossed and sent to her, and that it be entered 
upon the records of this bank and published in 
the daily papers of Newark." 

By the Executive Committee of the New 
Jersey Bankers' Association : 

"Whereas, it has pleased Almighty God in His 
infinite wisdom to remove from us by death our 
esteemed president and friend, Edward S. Camp- 
bell, who not only served this association ably 
and faithfully as president but also assisted ma- 
terially in its organization : be it 

"Resolved, That in the death of Mr. Campbell 
we have lost a most able executive, a genial and 
true friend and one who was held in the highest 
esteem by us all. We desire to permanently re- 
cord our appreciation of his most estimable char- 
acter, sterling worth, vigorous and attractive per- 
sonality. 

"Resolved, That we extend to his bereaved 
family our most sincere sympathy in this hour 
of great bereavement. 

"Resolved, That a copy of these preamble and 
resolutions be suitably engrossed and presented 
to Mrs. Campbell." 

By the Board of Managers of the How- 
ard Savings Institution : 

"The managers of the Howard Savings Insti- 
tution desire to express their sense of loss in the 
death of Edward S. Campbell, and to record this 
tribute to his memory. Mr. Campbell was elected 
a member of this board on August 29, 1904,, ap- 
pointed soon after a member of the auditing 
committee, and has attended to his duties prompt- 
ly and regularly since that time. He was a genial 
associate, and a man who, by reason of his abil- 
ity and character, added strength to the board 
and rendered efficient service to the institution. 



He was a public-spirited citizen and a Christian 
of the highest character, and his belief was ex- 
emplified by his daily life. In his sudden death 
the institution suffers a loss which can best be ap- 
preciated by those in the management of finan- 
cial institutions who know the value of thought- 
ful and wise counsellors from the ranks of suc- 
cessful and self-reliant business men. We offer 
our sincere sympathy to his wife and rejoice with 
her in the memory of a life so well spent. 

"Resolved, That this minute be spread upon 
the records of the institution and that an en- 
grossed copy be furnished his bereaved family." 

Mr. Campbell was an active and influen- 
tial figure in the hfe of the community, es- 
pecially in connection with those institu- 
tions most closely affecting its moral wel- 
fare. He was particularly interested in the 
Young Men's Christian Association, of 
Newark, was exceedingly liberal in its sup- 
port, and his personal influence was a con- 
tinual inspiration to it in its beneficent 
work. He was also a member of the New 
Brunswick Association, having been its 
treasurer for eight years, and its president 
for three years. He was also a member of 
the Essex Club of Newark. His death 
while he was yet in the prime of his menial 
powers left a void not to be filled, but the 
example of his life remains as a tender 
memory, and a life-long inspiration to all 
with whom he associated. 



PHILLIPS, Franklin, 

Engineer, Enterprising Citizen. 

Splendid in physique, with a stature that 
showed both vigor and strength, unusually 
handsome, most courtly in manner, and al- 
ways immaculate in dress, Franklin Phillips 
was a man who everywhere attracted in- 
stant attention. But these were externals 
and do not explain the love for him which 
men by the hundreds freely expressed by 
word and written page, nor why in throngs 
men high and influential came to pay the 
last tribute to him. That explanation is 
found in his beauty of character, his loyal- 
ty and love for family and home, his de- 
votion to duty, his modesty, capability, cf- 



124 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ficiency, his truth, courage, tactful sym- 
pathy, his deep sense of right and of jus- 
tice, his broad human sympathy that cm- 
braced all God's creatures, and his high 
sense of personal, professional and business 
honor. These were the qualities that drew 
and held men to him as with bands of steel. 

Franklin Phillips was born in Newark, 
New Jersey, January g, 1857, son of the 
late John Morris Phillips, one of Newark's 
leading "Captains of Industry" of a gener- 
ation ago. He prepared at Newark 
Academy, then entered the School of Me- 
chanical Arts, Cornell University, whence 
he was graduated with the class of 1878. 
At the University he took an active part in 
athletics, particularly rowing, a sport for 
which he retained his love all through life. 
He was a member of the fraternity Zeta 
Psi, and in all the requirements of univer- 
sity life fully met all social and scholar- 
ly tests, .^fter completing his technical 
course at Cornell, Mr. Phillips returned to 
Newark and at once became an active mem- 
ber of the Hewes & Phillips Iron Works, 
founded by his father, and later of the cor- 
poration of which he became president and 
general manager. The firm's specialty, 
steam engines for varied purposes, gave 
him ample scope to expand, and he became 
known in the mechanical world as a steam, 
hydraulic and mechanical engineer of ex- 
traordinary ability and resourcefulness. His 
reputation outgrew local bounds, and as 
consulting engineer he was called upon for 
advice by men eminent in their profession, 
dealing with engineering problems of great- 
est magnitude. In his private business and 
professional work he was an unqualified 
success, but had this been his only claim to 
public favor, his life would not have been 
the useful one it was. 

He was intensely public-spirited, and this 
led him into every department of city life, 
educational, religious, military, social and 
fraternal. While fully alive to his respon- 
sibilities as a citizen, and working shoulder 
to shoulder with those men striving for bet- 



ter municipal conditions, and an ardent 
soldier of the "Common Good," he never 
sought, desired nor accepted public office or 
personal preferment. He was for many 
years a trustee of the Newark Technical 
School, contributing materially to the ad- 
vancement of that useful institution ; serv- 
ed on important committees of the Newark 
Board of Trade ; was president of the 
Foundrymen's Association of New Jersey ; 
and was a member of the American Soci- 
ety of Mechanical Engineers. 

In matters religious he took a deep in- 
terest. He belonged to the Park Presbyter- 
ian Church, and was earnestly interested in 
the Young Men's Christian Association. 
In both he preached by precept and ex- 
ample a virile Christianity that encouraged 
young men to raise themselves to higher 
levels of morality. In politics he was a Re- 
publican, and an ardent champion of civic 
righteousness. In the almost forgotten 
days when the Passaic river was a joy and 
a delight to all lovers of aquatics, he was 
an enthusiastic member of the Triton Boat 
Club, and in this connection he acquired a 
high reputation, being the winner of many 
races, requiring both skill and practice. His 
social club was the Essex. Other interest- 
ing traits in his character were his fondness 
for animals, especially horses and dogs, 
and his love of reading. 

His connection with the New Jersey 
National Guard began in 1890 when he as- 
sisted in the organization of the Essex 
Troop, now the First Squadron of Cavalry 
of the Guard. He became quartermaster 
of the troop, later resigning to accept the 
rank of major of the Second Regiment. He 
was one of the most expert rifle and pistol 
shots in the State, a fact that was recogniz- 
ed by his appointment as state inspector of 
small arms and rifle practice, and for years 
he was attached to the regimental and brig- 
ade staff of Major General Collins. 

Major Phillips married Alice L., daugh- 
ter of Isaac and Emma (Lukens) Hall, of 
Philadelphia, who survives him with their 



125 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



children: Marguerita and Frederick Mor- 
ris. 

The announcement of the death of 
FrankHn Phillips, which occurred at his 
residence, No. 539 Mt. Prospect avenue, 
Newark, New Jersey, February 9, 1914, 
was a shock to his hundreds of friends, and 
to those who, at some time throughout his 
busy, useful life, had come under the 
charm of his rare and winning personal- 
ity. Over four hundred letters of condol- 
ence and sympathy were received by Mrs. 
Phillips, from which a few extracts may 
be given : 

From Major General Collins : 

"My personal feelings for him were of fond 
attachment, for I had learned to esteem him 
highly as a man and comrade. Modest and un- 
assuming, yet withal capable and efficient, he could 
always be relied upon to make good in any duty 
assigned him. ... I want you to know that 
his Commander and Comrade, and speaking for 
the staff of the Old Brigade, that we all loved 
him for his manly soldierly qualities." 

From Richard Wayne Parker: 

"I do not know how to tell you of my grief at 
the death of your husband, my old and valued 
friend. His character was almost unique for its 
union of gentleness, loyalty, truth, courage, abil- 
ity, and that tactful sympathy which so endeared 
him to us all, and that made intercourse with him 
a revelation of a better world where we shall all 
meet again." 

From resolutions passed by the Fore.~t 
Hill Literary Society: 

"He was always an interested member, ready 
to do his share for the profit and enjoyment of 
all and one devoted to the welfare and advance- 
ment of the Society. . . . We appreciate and 
shall long remember his active interest in all 
movements for the betterment and upbuilding of 
his native city. His suggestions and efforts in 
all civic matters were ever valuable, construc- 
tive and far-reaching in effect. While we recog- 
nize his worth as a member of this Societj-, as a 
professional and business man and as a citizen, 
we still more respect and honor his character as 
a good man. His personal honor was unimpeach- 
able, his sense of right and of justice keen, his 
attention to duty highly creditable, his sympathies 

126 



humane and broad, his principles of conduct and 
of life rock-ribbed as the Eternal hills." 

From his brethren of the Cornell Chap- 
ter of Zeta Psi, published in their official 
organ, "The Circle of Zeta Psi," April 
1914: 

"Although distinguished for his great profes- 
sional abilities. Brother Phillips will forever be 
best remembered by those who were so fortunate 
as to enjoy his acquaintance, for his purely per- 
sonal qualities. He was truly noble in character 
and in bearing. Strong and gentle, brave and 
modest, firm and sweet, his place was rooted deep 
in the affection of his friends. ... By his 
sound judgment and his constant readiness to 
assist, many of his associates came to depend up- 
on him and to them his loss must appear irrepar- 
able." 

The predominating note in these evi- 
dences of respect is his devotion to duty, a 
trait most marked, whether he was called 
upon to deal with a refractory engine, or 
marshal a parade of thousands of men. 



CROSS, Joseph, 

ZiCL-wyer, Jurist, Iiegislator. 

The late Judge Cross was a man whose 
character and ability would have made him 
eminent in any profession or calling. Edu- 
cated in Princeton College, prepared for 
the law in association with men of mark in 
the profession, his training enabled him to 
use his moral and intellectual equipment to 
the honor of his chosen profession and for 
the service of men. As a lawyer he brought 
to his work a zeal for the truth and an 
industry that knew no fatigue. His work 
as a legislator was characterized by faith- 
fulness and fearless opposition to the 
wrong. His career culminated in his ser- 
vice as United States District Judge, where 
for eight years he gave to his work the 
fruits of his rich experience and ripe study 
with such patience and even judgment that 
his decisions were received with confidence 
and approval. 

Joseph Cross was bom near Morristown. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



New Jersey, December 29, 1843, the son of 
William and Sarah M. (Lee) Cross. He 
obtained his early education in the local 
schools and prepared for college at Pearl 
Cottage Seminary, Elizabeth, New Jersey, 
of which Rev. David H. Pierson was prm- 
cipal. In 1861 he entered Princeton Col- 
lege, from which he graduated in the class 
of 1865. Immediately thereafter he began 
the study of law in the office of William 
J. Magie, of Elizabeth, (later Chancellor of 
New Jersey), and also attended a course of 
lectures at Columbia College Law School, 
New York City. He was admitted to prac- 
tice in New Jersey as an attorney in June, 
1868, and as a counsellor in November, 
1871. Upon his admission to the bar he 
was taken into partnership by his former 
preceptor under the firm name of Magie 
& Cross. They practiced together until 
1880, when Mr. Magie was appointed one 
of the Justices of the Supreme Court. In 
January, 1884, a partnership was formed 
with Louis H. Noe, under the firm name 
of Cross & Noe, of Elizabeth. 

In 1888 Mr. Cross was appointed Judge 
of the District Court of the City of Eliza- 
beth, but, in common with all the other dis- 
trict court judges of the State, was legis- 
lated out of office in April, 1891. He was 
elected a member of the Assembly from 
LTniOn county in the fall of 1893, and on 
May 26, 1894 was chosen speaker of the 
House to succeed Mr. Holt, resigned. In 
1895 he was re-elected speaker. He w?.s 
elected State Senator in November, 1898, 
to fill the vacancy left by the resignation of 
Foster M. Voorhees, who had been nomi- 
nated for the governorship. In 1899 he 
was re-elected as State Senator, and in 
1902 was again re-elected, and served as 
president of the Senate during the session 
of 1905, with marked ability. Judge Cross 
entered politics reluctantly and only after 
he was persuaded by the earnest solicita- 
tion of good citizens, regardless of party, 
who knew the character and ability of the 
man and felt that the State needed his ser- 



vices and politics the moral uplift of las 
example. He became speaker of the House 
by the unanimous vote of his party col- 
leagues, and president of the Senate as 
much by virtue of his personal integrity as 
through party usage. "He entered politics 
every whit clean ; he retired from it without 
spot or blemish and only the more sincerely 
esteemed because he had proved that a man 
of fixed principles may serve the State and 
his constituents and remain a conspicuous 
example of the best citizenship." His leg- 
islative career was brought to a close by 
his appointment, by President Roosevelt, in 
April, 1905, to the high place of Judge of 
the United States Court for the District 
of New Jersey. Deeply versed in the law, 
and possessing a genuine judicial tempera- 
ment, the position was most congenial, not- 
withstanding the close application and se- 
vere labor it imposed upon him. He served 
with signal honor to himself and with stead- 
fast loyalty to his lofty professional and 
moral ideals, and continued in his arduous 
duties practically to the time of his death. 

Judge Cross had been a resident of Eliz- 
abeth, New Jersey, since 1858, and was 
prominently identified with the affairs of 
his home city. He was a member of the 
Westminster Presbyterian Church, serving 
it as deacon, Sunday school superintendent 
and elder. He was a trustee of Princeton 
Theological Seminary for several years. He 
married, October 19, 1870, Mary Prich- 
ard Whiting, daughter of Albertus D., and 
Catherine DeWitt Whiting. 

The death of Judge Cross, which occur- 
red October 29, 1913, was a source of 
sincere mourning throughout the comnmn- 
ity, and the opinions expressed at that time 
give excellent insight into his character and 
indicate the estimation in which he was 
held. "In his death the community sus- 
tains the loss of a good citizen, the church 
of a faithful friend, and the Bench and Bar 
of a fearless and distinguished Judge." "A 
man of marked honesty and uprightness, a 
judge of great ability, an excellent lawyer 



127 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



of high standing in his profession, a man 
of broad mind and fine character." There 
can be no more fitting close to this short 
review than the tribute paid editorially by 
the "Elizabeth Daily Journal," which said 
in part : — 

"Through the death of Judge Joseph Cross. 
Elizabeth and the State as a whole, lose one of 
their best-known and respected citizens. His life 
may be said to have been dedicated to public ser- 
vice. His early political activities testify to the 
esteem in which he was held by his fellow citi- 
zens and by those associated with him in the busi- 
ness of law making. New Jersey is much in- 
debted to him for the quality of the service he 
rendered in the fields of politics and public af- 
fairs. He had the traits of a judge. He was 
clear sighted, well balanced and able. His inter- 
est in his work was most conscientious and un- 
flagging. He was a man of many kindnesses. He 
was quick to appreciate opportunities for useful- 
ness and to recognize worth in others. His suc- 
cess was well merited and widely recognized. 
Judge Cross was a type of man who, through 
his good citizenship and staunch Americanism, 
through the quality of his private life and the 
worth of his public service, set the State an ex- 
.ample. His influence will continue to be felt 
among us." 



ACTON, Jonathan Woodnutt, 

Iiawyer, Public Official. 



The American line of descent to Jona- 
than W. Acton, of Salem, began with Ben- 
jamin -'Kcton, one of the prominent young 
men of the Fenwick Colony, who is believ- 
ed to have arrived on the ship "Kent" from 
London, landing at New Salem, June 23, 
1677. He was a surveyor, also a tanner 
and currier. He owned land in Salem 
bought of John Fenwick, was the first re- 
corder of the newly incorporated town of 
Salem, laid out roads, did a large amount 
of surveying for private owners and for the 
heirs of William Penn, and in 1729 signed 
a report of an extensive survey "Benjamin 
Acton, surveyor of Fenwick Colony and 
Salem Tenth." He built a brick house in 
1727 on his tract on Fenwick street, now 
East Broadway, Salem, and there resided 

128 



until death. He was a member of the So- 
ciety of Friends and is prominently men- 
tioned in Society affairs as early as 1682. 
He was married in 1688, his wife Christina 
bearing him sons and daughters. 

Benjamin (2), son of Benjamin and 
Christina Acton, was born in 1695, and suc- 
ceeded his father in the tanning business. 
He inherited the tanyard and homestead, 
building another and larger residence on 
the original tract. He married, in 1727, 
Elizabeth, widow of Thomas Hill. 

John, son of Benjamin (2) and Eliza- 
beth Acton, was born August 31, 1729, and 
succeeded his father in the tanning busi- 
ness. He married (second) Mary, gran 1- 
daughter of Charles Oakford and daughter 
of John Oakford. of Alloway's Creek town- 
ship. 

Samuel, son of John Acton and his sec- 
ond wife, Mary Oakford, was born No- 
vember 10, 1764, died in Haddonfield, New 
Jersey, in 1801. He learned the tanner's 
trade under his father, but soon abandoned 
if in favor of mercantile life, conducting 
a store in Salem in partnership with his 
half brother, Clement Acton. Later he 
withdrew from the firm and purchased a 
tannery at Haddonfield, where he resided 
until his death. He married Sarah Hall, 
born in 1768, died in 1852, daughter of 
William and Sarah (Brinton) Hall. 

Isaac Oakford, youngest son of Samuel 
and Sarah (Hall) Acton, was born about 
1800. He abjured the family business, tan- 
ning, and learned the blacksmith's trade in 
Pennsylvania, after becoming of legal age 
opening a shop in Salem on Griffith street. 
He was a successful business man and in 
later life kept an iron and hardware stcie 
in a large three-story brick building which 
he erected for store and dwelling. Subse- 
quently he erected a large iron foundry on 
West Griffith street, the site being part of 
the Nicholson lot belonging to Salem 
Monthly Meeting of Friends. He continued 
in business until his death, one of the lead- 
ing men of his day and region. He married 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Lucy Ann, daughter of Jonathan and 
Temperance Bilderback, of Manningtcn 
township, Salem county. 

Captain Edward A. Acton, eldest son of 
Isaac Oakford and Lucy Ann (Bilderback) 
Acton, was killed in battle, August 29, 
1862. He was a captain of the Fifth Reg- 
iment New Jersey Volunteer Infantry, was 
wounded at Williamsburg, and met his 
death while leading his company at the sec- 
ond battle of Bull Run. He married Maiy, 
daughter of Jonathan and Mary Woodnutt, 
a descendant of Richard Woodnutt, who 
came from England, a member of the So- 
ciety of Friends who settled within the lim- 
its of Salem Meeting soon after the advent 
of John Fenwick, with his wife, Mary (be- 
lieved to have been Mary Pledger ) . The 
line of descent to Mary (Woodnutt) Acton 
is through the eldest son of the emigrant, 
Joseph Woodnutt and Rachel Craven, his 
wife ; their son, Richard Woodnutt and his 
wife, a Miss Walmsley ; their son, Jona- 
than Woodnutt, and Sarah Mason, his wife; 
their son, James Mason Woodnutt, and his 
wife, Margaret Carpenter; their son, Jona- 
athan Woodnutt, and his wife, Mary Good- 
win ; their daughter, Mary Woodnutt mar- 
ried Captain Edward A. Acton. Children : 
Walter W., Isaac Oakford, and Jonathan 
W., of further mention. 

Jonathan Woodnutt Acton, youngest son 
of Captain Edward A. and Mary E. 
(Woodnutt) Acton, was born in Salem, 
November 8, 1857, died in his native city, 
May 6, 1907. "Salem has had many sons 
who left their impress on her history, but 
among them all there was none who seived 
more faithfully and none who shone bright- 
er in her business, professional, or social 
life than Jonathan W. Acton." He was ed- 
ucated in the Friends Academy and the high 
school at Salem, then for three years attend- 
ing the LTnited States Military Academy 
at West Point, made a student in that in- 
stitution by appointment of Congressman 
Gement H. Sinnickson. Upon his return 
to Salem he read law with Albert H. Slape, 

12 

n-9 



successfully took his legal examinations, 
and was admitted to the New Jersey bar as 
attorney in 1S84, becoming a counsellor in 
1887. Lentil 1890 he pursued general prac- 
tice in Salem, when by appointment of 
Governor Leon Abbett he became Prosecu- 
tor of the Pleas for Salem county, being 
reappointed in 1895, his entire service in 
this capacity covering a period of ten yeais. 
In 1900 Mr. Acton resumed private prac- 
tice, and so continued with brilliant success 
until his death, most successful as an advo- 
cate, and winning a very large proportion 
of his cases. He was thorough in the prep- 
aration of his argument, in procedure free 
from the slightest suggestion of subterfuge, 
and in himself the soul of honor, depending 
entirely upon the proven facts in his case 
and their earnest, eloquent presentation 10 
convince judges and juries. He loved his 
profession, but responsibilities as a citizen 
were equally binding upon him, and for 
twelve years he was chief executive of his 
native city, 1885 to 1897. He was re-elcct- 
ed for a fifth term, (an honor conferred 
upon no other man in the history of the 
city), but it was discovered that he could 
not legally hold the mayor's office and also 
the county office of Prosecutor of the Pleas, 
therefore he refused to qualify for his fifth 
term, its council electing his successor. He 
also served a term as member of the Board 
of Education (1901). 

As executive he was careful, but pro- 
gressive, his official career being one that in- 
spired public confidence. As prosecutor he 
performed the duties of that often unpleas- 
ant position without shrinking and with un- 
faltering courage, ever placing duty and ihe 
right above personal consideration. As a 
lawyer he grew constantly in public favor, 
his services as an advocate and counsellor 
being in continuous demand, and he appear- 
ed in many important cases in Salem and 
adjacent counties. In the social and fra- 
ternal life of his city no one was more pop- 
ular or welcome. He was a past master of 
Excelsior Lodge, Free and Accepted Ma- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



sons, of Salem, was active in the organiza- 
tion of the Country Club, and until his 
death was continuously a member of the 
board of governors. He was an ardent 
Democrat, loved the traditions and firmly 
believed in the principles of his party. He 
was an efficient party worker and leader, 
his opinion and advice carrying great 
weight in political councils. He was, by 
family ties, a Friend, but his birthright 
was lost when his father married outside 
the Society. He was a Friend at heart, his 
honorable, upright nature responding to the 
simple, Christ-like faith of that sect. 

While this review of the life work of one 
of Salem's honored dead must of necessity 
omit much that was useful to his fellows, it 
fully shows that in whatever position Mr. 
Acton was placed he met every demand 
made upon him with the complete measure 
of his ability, and no duty was left unper- 
formed, whatever the influence that at- 
tempted to swerve him from its just dis- 
charge. He was an incorruptible executive, 
a relentless prosecutor, and the open foe 
of wrongdoers, but possessed the gentlest 
of natures, a warm, ready sympathy, aiid 
a heart that always responded to the needs 
of friends or unfortunates. He was univer- 
sally loved and respected, and years must 
elapse before another can completely fill 
the void caused by his death. Salem uni- 
versally mourned his death, the most per- 
fect public testimonial being tendered his 
memory by Judge Clement H. Sinnickson, 
judge of the courts, and by the members 
of the Salem County Bar. when at open 
court session (May 20, 1907) the Judge 
praised Mr. Acton's legal ability, his elo- 
quence as an advocate, his ingrained hones- 
ty, his moral and physical courage, and 
made reference to his magnetic personality. 
After others had, with touching earnestness 
and sincerity, borne witness to his worth as 
a man and friend, the following resolution 
was read, adopted, and entered upon the 
court minutes : 



"The members of the Bar of Salem County de- 
sire to express their sorrow for the untimely 
death of one of their fellow members, Jonathan 
VVoodnutt Acton, for more than twenty years a 
prominent and successful and useful lawyer but 
one who has been taken away from among us in 
what we might well have hoped was the very 
prime of his life. 

"Mr. Acton was born in Salem and had lived 
here during the almost fifty years of his life, 
and we who were his professional associates and 
knew him well are glad to bear testimony to our 
appreciation of his steadfast integrity as a citi- 
zen, his successful practice as a lawyer, and his 
useful work as a public officer. 

"Mr. Acton was distinctively an advocate. He 
was gifted with a natural, earnest, eloquent ad- 
dress that was successful with juries in a large 
proportion of the cases he argued before them. 
But he was growing steadily as a lawyer, in all 
respects, until he was stricken with the disease 
that carried him away." 

The resolution closed with beautiful ex- 
pressions of regret and condolence. 

Jonathan Woodnutt Acton married, July 
19, 1890, Frances Blackwood House, who 
survives him, continuing her residence at 
the home on Oak street, Salem, that she en- 
tered as a bride. She and her children are 
members of the St. John's Episcopal 
Church. Children : Frances Newlin, born 
June 14, 1891, now a student in the law 
department of the University of Pennsyl- 
vania, class of 1916; Mary, born January 
2, 1893, married Pierce Alridge Ham- 
mond, a druggist of West Chester, Pennsyl- 
vania, and has a son. Pierce Alridge (2), 
born in September, 1914; Jonathan Wood- 
nutt, born July 23, 1894, also a law student 
at the University of Pennsylvania, class of 
1917; Conrad Berens, born September 6, 
1902: Margaret Carpenter, born December 
23, 1903. 

(The House Line.) 

This family name is a contraction of the 
form "Houseman," and was established in 
Salem by Jacob House, who came to this 
city an expert glass blower, a calling he 
followed for many years in a factory built 
by Mr. Wistar. He was also a farmer, and 



130 




(^p0.i^-c*.,4^j^ '<y^^'^^tA^-'^^ -y^l^^uJ^Ml^^ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



served in the Revolutionary army with his 
brother, Jonathan. He married Mary, 
daughter of William Oakford, who owned 
a large tract of land in Alloway township, 
and granddaughter of Wade Oakford, the 
emigrant. Jacob and Mary (Oakford) 
House had children, Anna, Margaret, and 
William. 

William, son of Jacob House, was bom 
January 27, 1771, and died in 1802. He 
was a farmer and large land owner, his 
possessions ranging between two and three 
thousand acres, situated in Upper Alloway 
Creek township. He was honored by his 
fellows to election to many local offices, 
and during his lifetime held important place 
in the public service. He married Sarah 
Wood, and had two children. 

Jonathan, son of William and Sarah 
(Wood) House, was born September 25, 
1798. Left an orphan at the age of four 
years he grew to manhood under the care 
of an uncle, in mature years engaging in 
farming and the operation of a saw mill. 
He was the builder of a number of ships, 
and owned the large farm upon which he 
died. His political beliefs were strongly 
Democratic, and he was a member of the 
township committee. Appointed a lay judge 
of Salem county, he achieved a creditable 
record in that high position, his service 
marked by faithfulness and ability. His 
home life was his greatest joy, and in the 
companionship of his family he found his 
one relaxation from business cares and pub- 
lic burdens. He was an earnest, devout 
Christian, and held the regard and admir- 
ation of his fellows. Jonathan House mar- 
ried Frances Blackwood, and had three sons 
and two daughters. 

Jonathan (2), son of Jonathan and 
Frances (Blackwood) House, was born in 
Alloway, New Jersey, May 10, 1843, the 
home of his birth the brick house built by 
the founder of the family, Jacob House, 
his great-grandfather. As a youth he at- 
tended the public schools of Alloway town- 
ship and Eldridge Hill, afterward a private 



school in Shiloh, and when nineteen years 
of age discontinued his studies to take up 
duties on the homestead, which he culti- 
vated during his active years. He was at 
one time a member of the Home Guaid, 
formed during the Civil War period, and 
fraternizes with the Independent Order ol 
Odd Fellows. He is a staunch Democrat 
Jonathan House (2) married, Novembei 
22, 1864, Elmina Ayres, born in 1844, died 
August 10, 1899, daughter of Elmer and 
Clemence (Payne) Ayres, her father a son 
of Ezekiel and Margaret Ayres. Children: 
George ; and Frances Blackwood, of previ- 
ous mention, who married Jonathan Wood- 
nutt Acton. 



ATWATER, Judge Edward Sanford, 
Iiairyer, Jurist, Philanthropist. 

The legal profession numbers among its 
members men of high distinction, scholarly 
attainments, and wide experience, and 
prominent among these was the late Judge 
Edward Sanford Atwater, of Elizabeth, 
New Jersey. He was a son of the Rev. 
Lyman H. Atwater, D.D., LL.D., and Sus- 
an Sanford Atwater. He was a descendant 
of a distinguished English family, and the 
American progenitor of the family was 
David Atwater, who came from the county 
of Kent, England, and from whom he was 
descended in the eighth generation. David 
Atwater was one of the original settlers 
of New Haven, Connecticut, and both of 
the parents of Edward Sanford Atwater 
were natives of that city. His father, the 
Rev. Lyman H. Atwater, was a graduate 
of Yale University and the Yale Theolog- 
ical Seminary, and was prominent as a cler- 
gyman, instructor and writer. 

Judge Edward Sanford Atwater was born 
in Fairfield, Connecticut, on February 8th, 
1843, ^'^<i died on June 3rd, 1913, at his 
home. No. 511 Westminster avenue, Eliza- 
beth, New Jersey. When a young lad he 
removed to Princeton, where his father was 
for three decades a professor in Princeton 



131 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



University. His earlier education was ac- 
quired in Princeton Preparatory School, 
after which he matriculated at Princeton 
University, from which he was graduated 
with the degree of Bachelor of Arts in the 
class of 1862, and was later awarded the 
degree of Master of Arts. Later he entti- 
ed the Columbia L^niversity Law School, 
from which he received the degree of Bach- 
elor of Laws in 1866, and in the June term 
of the same year was admitted to the New 
Jersey bar as an attorney, and as a counsel- 
lor in the year 1870. He at once estab- 
lished himself in the practice of his profes- 
sion in Elizabeth, with which city he was 
identified until his death. 

From that date until his death Judge At- 
water was prominently associated with ihe 
affairs of the city and of the State, hold- 
ing many positions of trust and honor, be- 
ginning with his services as a member of 
the Board of Education and terminating 
with his services as Judge of the Union 
County Court of Common Pleas. In 1872 
he was chosen as a member of the Board 
of Education of the city of Elizabeth, serv- 
ing in 1873 '^nd 1874. He was unanimous- 
ly elected Superintendent of Schools of 
Elizabeth on May 12, 1877, ^n*^ served in 
that capacity until February 11, 1880, when 
he resigned. In 1883 he was elected a mem- 
ber of the Common Council of Elizabeth 
and served until 1889. He was president of 
the City Council for one term, being elected 
to that office January i. 1887, and serving 
until December 31 of the same year. In 
1880 he was appointed a member of the 
State Board of Health by Governor McClel- 
lan, and served a full term of six years. In 
July, 1895, he was appointed City Attor- 
ney of Elizabeth, and in 1896 was ap- 
pointed Judge of the District Court by Gov- 
ernor Griggs. In 1901 he was reappoint- 
ed by Governor Voorhees, and again reap- 
pointed by Governor Stokes in 1906. In 
May, 1906, he was appointed Judge of the 
Court of Common Pleas of Union county 
to fill a vacancy, and in 1908 was reappoint- 

132 



ed to the same office for a full term, by 
Governor Fort, and served until January 
6, 1913, when his impaired health made his 
resignation imperative. 

His interest in working out a solution for 
the juvenile problem dated from the time 
of his sitting as judge in the Court of Com- 
mon Pleas, when many cases of juvenile de- 
linquency were brought before him. In la- 
ter years he gave much of his time and at- 
tention to this problem, and was one of 
the strongest advocates for the establish- 
ment of a separate house of detention for 
the youthful offenders, thus keeping them 
from contact with older criminals. 

In social and fraternal life. Judge At- 
water was prominently identified, particu- 
larly with the Sons of the American Revo- 
lution, having been president of the New 
Jersey State Society for four years from 
1909 to 1912 inclusive. He was a member 
up to the time of his death of the Eliza- 
bethtown Chapter, No. i, of that society. 
Among other clubs and societies with which 
he was affiliated were the New Jersey State 
Bar Association, the Union County Bar As- 
sociation, the New Jersey Historical Soci- 
ety, Princeton Qub of New York, and the 
Elizabeth Town and Country Club. 

In church life he was prominent as a mem- 
ber of the First Presbyterian Church of 
Elizabeth, and was for many years a pre- 
siding elder. For nearly twenty years he 
was superintendent of the Sunday school. 
He was charitable in the extreme, but his 
charity was bestowed in an unostentatious 
manner. 

Judge Atwater married, in 1876, Ger- 
trude Vanderpoel Oakley, daughter of Dr. 
Lewis W. Oakley, of Elizabeth. They had 
two children — a daughter, Henrietta Bald- 
win, who married Herbert Underwood Far- 
rand, and who has two children — Sanford 
Atwater Farrand and John Carroll Fai- 
rand ; and a son, Edward Sanford Atwater 
Jr., an attorney, of Elizabeth, New Jersey, 
who has two sons — Edward Sanford At- 
water, (3rd), and Charles Brown Atwater. 



Y. 

1 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



TOWNSEND, Rev. Charles, D.D., 

Prominent Clergyman, latterateor. 

There is no influence in any community 
which makes a more permanent impression 
than that of a beloved and revered pastor, 
and one of the most beneficent of these, one 
whose saintliness was admitted by all, 
whether they were of his flock or not, was 
the Rev. Charles Townsend, D.D., pastor 
for almost twenty years of the First Pres- 
byterian Church of Orange, New Jersey. 
His family had been prominent in the so- 
cial and civic life of Buffalo, New York, 
where his grandfather, the Hon. Charles 
Townsend, was one of the pioneer settlers, 
later became one of the first judges in Ni- 
agara county, and also filled with ability 
many other positions of honor and public 
trust in the western part of the State of 
New York. 

The name of Townsend is a very an- 
cient one, and arises from the location of the 
first man who assumed it as a surname. He 
evidently resided on the outskirts of some 
town, and the name originally appears in 
England as Atte Town's End. The family 
of Townsend in England and America 
traces its ancestry to Walter Atte Town- 
shende, son of Sir Lodovic de Townshend, 
a Norman nobleman, who came to England 
soon after the Conquest. Lodovic married 
Elizabeth de Hauteville, heiress of Rayn- 
ham, and daughter of Sir Thomas de 
Hauteville, a portion of whose property 
came to the Townsend family. In 1200 
we find one of the family, William Town- 
send ("or ad cxiUtmviUe). in Taverham, 
County Norfolk. Thomas ette-Tunneshen- 
de (Townsend) lived in the reign of Henry 
III, 1217-72, at West Herling. William 
A;te Tunesend lived in 1292 ; Thomas in 
1714. The family became prominent in 
Norfolk in the fourteenth century. The 
coat-of-arms of this ancient family was a 
chevron between three escallop shells. 

Rev. Charles Townsend, D.D., was bom 
in Buffalo, New York, July 15. 1857, died 

133 



in Orange, New Jersey, December 14, 1914, 
and is buried there in Rosedale Cemetery. 
Having completed the courses of the ele- 
mentary and high schools of his native city, 
Mr. Townsend entered upon the field of 
journalism, with which he was successfully 
identified until he went abroad with his 
parents, when he resumed his studies in 
Belgium, Switzerland and Germany. 

Mr. Townsend returned to this country 
after the death of his father in Germany, 
and commenced the study of theology at 
the Auburn Theological Seminary, from 
which he was graduated with honor in the 
class of 1883. He had been licensed to 
preach by the Presbytery of Buffalo in 
1882. The ability of Mr. Townsend had 
not remained unnoted, and immediately af- 
ter his graduation he was called to assume 
charge of the First Presbyterian Church of 
Lansingburgh, New York, and was ordain- 
ed to the Christian ministry by the Presby- 
tery of Troy in June, 1883. Ten years 
were spent in this pastorate, during which 
Rev. Townsend added greatly to his repu- 
tation. The church funds had been at a 
very low ebb when he took charge, and 
when he left they were in a very satisfac- 
tory condition, and the congregation had 
greatly increased in numbers. In June, 
1893, he became pastor of the Woodland 
Avenue Presbyterian Church at Cleveland, 
Ohio, which was one of the largest and 
most influential churches of this denomina- 
tion in the country at the time. He was 
installed by the Presbytery of Oeveland in 
June, 1893, but in less than two years re- 
signed his charge, because the delicate 
health of a daughter made a residence in 
Cleveland undesirable. At this time he ac- 
cepted a call to the First Presbyterian 
Church of Orange, New Jersey, was in- 
stalled in this historic church by the Pres- 
bytery of Morris and Orange in May, 1895, 
and filled this charge until his death. He 
was not alone popular among the members 
of his congregation, but with all classes of 
people, his warm heart and broad mind rec- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ognizing not distinctions of religion when it 
was a question of assisting a fellow being. 
He was an eloquent and convincing preach- 
er, and adhered strictly to topics connected 
with religion when in the pulpit, holding 
that it was no place for lectures on gener- 
al subjects, however worthy their object 
might be. Washington and Jefferson Col- 
lege conferred upon him the degree of Doc- 
tor of Divinity in June, 1903. He frequent- 
ly represented the presbyteries of his con- 
nection as commissioner to the General As- 
sembly, and served each such presbytery as 
its moderator. Calls came to him frequent- 
ly from numerous other churches, but he 
preferred long pastorates, and declined to 
serve in Washington, Newark, Albany, and 
other places. He was a man of many sided 
ability and talent. So marked was this in 
the line of art, that had he chosen to make 
a life study of that rather than of preach- 
ing, there is no doubt that he would have 
stood at the front rank of American artists. 
As it is, he painted many pictures which are 
worthy of a place in the National Gallery. 
Photography also engaged a considerable 
share of his attention, and so notable was 
his work in this direction that, at the time 
of his death, the Camera Club of Orange, 
of which he was a member, donated two 
hundred dollars to a charitable organiza- 
tion in honor of his memory. He was 
equally talented with his pen, and was a 
frequent contributor to the literature of the 
day, along secular and religious lines, and 
some poems of which he was the author 
are possessed of a high degree of literary 
merit. He was of a genial and kindly na- 
ture, and was a member of Hope Lodge, 
Free and Accepted Masons : The Authors' 
Club, of New York City ; the Royal Arca- 
num ; and the Camera Gub of Orange. 
New Jersey. 

Rev. Townsend married, June 10, 1884, 
Mary Louise Markham, of New York. 
Children : Marian Louise, who married 
Mahlon Hutchison ; Charles, deceased ; 
Gladys Constance, married Guy Cory 



Cleveland ; Charles Howard ; Roger Corn- 
ing. Rev. Townsend was also survived by 
a brother, E. Corning Townsend, of Buffa- 
lo, New York, and two sisters, Mrs. George 
B. Wellington, of Troy, New York, and 
Cora Townsend, of Buffalo, New York. At 
the time of the death of Rev. Townsend, 
many organizations passed resolutions of 
condolence, and two of these are here sub- 
joined : 

Whereas : In response to the call of our pres- 
ident the Orange Camera Club is met together 
this 19th day of December, nineteen hundred and 
fourteen, to take such formal action as shall sin- 
cerely though inadequately, express a sense of 
our great loss and deep sorrow at the death of 
our honored and beloved fellow member, Dr. 
Charles Townsend. Therefore be it. 

Resolved, That we give due and heartfelt ex- 
pression to the personal bereavement experienced 
by the membership of this organization, and to 
the profound loss which the death of Dr. Town- 
send means to this Club as such. Associated as 
a member since February 20th, 1896, with all its 
interests, ever solicitous for the highest and best 
welfare of the Club, always in the administration 
of its afifairs when serving on any committees, 
and ever invaluable both in service and in coun- 
cil whenever called upon to associate himself in 
its activities, the Orange Camera Club feels that 
in the death of this most valued member, there is 
incurred a loss which it will be impossible to 
meet. As a Qub we put ourselves in memory 
of the heavy obligations under which we find 
ourselves to the skill, fidelity and devotion of 
this departed member. Serving a term on our 
Board of Governors, as a member at large, his 
experience and his wisdom at the command of 
the Club in whatever paths were opened to him, 
and otherwise Dr. Townsend made himself con- 
tinuously of the utmost value to this organization 
so dear to him. Nor are we unmindful of his 
broader and larger influence for good in the gen- 
eral outside world of amateur photography. For 
several years Dr. Townsend represented this 
Club in the American Lantern Slide Exchange, 
ever making his presence felt in its annual delib- 
erations as a power in the conservation of the 
best interests inherent in that branch of amateur 
photography, his loss to that body will be felt as 
keenly as it is to our own. Skilled in his own 
photographic work, high in his conceptions of 
this phase of art, clear and keen in critical ability, 
generous and helpful to his fellow members, 
broad and practical as a man of affairs, warm- 

34 





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CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



hearted and devoted as a friend, we thus inscribe 
our sentiment of loss with profoundest sorrow. 
We would also voice our loss, not alone from a 
photographic viewpoint, but would record the 
fact that Dr. Townsend never failed to point us 
to higher ideals as men. and his presence was a 
continual inspiration to each of us. "His life 
was gentle; and the elements so mixed in him 
that Nature might stand up and say to all the 
world, this was a man!" It is therefore further 
Resolved, That the foregoing be committed to 
the formal records of our Club, and that a copy 
of same be conveyed by the secretary to his fam- 
ily. Done at a special meeting of the Orange 
Camera Club, held Saturday evening, December 
19th. 1914. pursuant to a call of the President, 
Mr. Richard F. Hetherington. 

(Signed) George E. Melendy, 
LiNDLEY H. Bode, 
A. H. Williams, 
Special Committee. 

IN MEMORIAM 

The Rev. Charles Townsend, D. D. 

Beloved Pastor of this Church for Ten Years, 
1883-1893, Died at Orange, New Jersey, Decem- 
ber 14, 1914. Held in grateful memory by this 
congregation. 

Resolved, That the Session of the First Pres- 
byterian Church of Lansingburgh records with 
sorrow the death of the Rev. Charles Townsend, 
D. D., a former pastor of this church, who died 
at his late residence in Orange, N. J., on Decem- 
ber 14th, 1914. Dr. Townsend was called to the 
pastorate of this church and was here ordained 
and installed July 2, 1883, shortly following his 
graduation from Auburn Theological Seminary. 
For ten years this church prospered under his 
vigorous and effective ministry, making large 
accessions to its membership, and extensive im- 
provements in its property. By his wholesome 
cheer and hearty kindliness, his unfailing sym- 
pathy and eager readiness to help. Dr. Town- 
send increasingly endeared himself to his church; 
while his broad interest in public affairs, his gen- 
ial friendliness and exceptional brilliancy of 
mind won him a large circle of friends without, 
and a very prominent place in the life of the 
community. Frequently hearing warm expres- 
sions of personal attachment to Dr. Townsend 
and noting the wide spread sorrow his death has 
occasioned among us. we are impressed anew 
with the lasting influence of his ministry in this 
place. Cherishing pleasant recollections of his 
happy pastorate and lamenting his death, we 
gratefully record in the Session Minutes of our 
church, this tribute of esteem and affection. Re- 



joicing in the distinguished success he has at- 
tained in other pastorates, we much more re- 
joice in the delightful continuance of the heart- 
felt love which Dr. Townsend and his beloved 
wife have always manifested towards this, their 
first church, and in the frequent visits by which 
they have kept the ties of old love and friendship 
so closely knit. With a deep sense of our per- 
sonal loss, we extend to Mrs. Townsend and to 
the children, our affectionate sympathy, sincerely 
praying that "the God of all comfort" may abund- 
antly sustain them with His "sufficient grace." 

Resolved. That this minute be presented to the 
congregation for adoption at the morning ser- 
vice on Sunday, December 20. 

By order of the Session, 

Charles H. Walker, Moderator. 
Paul Cook, Gerk. 

Dec. 18, 1914. 

Elders : A. Hardy. Jas. J. Edelz, Warren T. 
Kellogg. Joseph J. Hagen, J. K. P. Pine, Her- 
bert L. Bryant, J. Edgar Sipperly, Edward W. 
Arms, Joseph Macaulay, Mott D. Brown, John A. 
Smith. 

Trustees: W. N. Miter, L. W. Arms, Geo. F. 
Wood, Neil K. White, Frank F. Kellogg, J. 
Wright Gardner, per W. T. K. (out of town). 



FRANCIS, Edward William, 

Civil War Veteran, Mannfactnrer. 

A man of serious aims, broad views on 
all questions, generous ideals and shrewd 
business opinions, was to be found in the 
person of Edward William Francis, late of 
East Orange, New Jersey. He was genial 
and courteous on all occasions^ and his ac- 
curate estimate of human nature enabled 
him to take a leading part in the selection 
of the men necessary to fill the important 
positions in the concern with which he was 
identified for so long a period of time. He 
was a descendant of William Francis, of the 
Parish of Llysyfran, county of Pembroke, 
South Wales, who sailed August 14, 1798, 
in the ship "Cleopatra," from Fishguard. 
William Arnold, son of Williain Francis, 
and father of Edward William Francis, 
was a man of large wealth, and he was en- 
gaged in the business of importing fine 
china. He married, January 10, 1839, 
Catherine Adele Baldwin. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Edward William Francis was born in 
New York City, March 5, 1842, and died 
at his home at No. 98 Walnut street, East 
Orange, New Jersey, February 26, 1906. 
He received a fine preparatory education at 
a boarding school in Yonkers, New York, 
but was obliged to spend one year in the 
public schools of New York City, in order 
to become eligible for entrance to the City 
College. He soon became associated with 
the Enoch Morgan's Sons Sapolio Com- 
pany, and during the long period of forty 
years filled the arduous post of treasurer of 
the company. A description of this com- 
pany and its importance is unnecessary in 
this work. He always gave his political 
support to the Democratic party, and for 
many years was a member of the Town- 
ship Improvement Society of East Orange. 
He was an active participant in the strug- 
gle of the Civil War, serving during two 
enlistments. One was with the Ninth Reg- 
iment, New York National Guard, and the 
other was with the Seventy-first Regiment, 
New York National Guard. His interest 
in this latter regiment never abated 
throughout his life, and during the Spanish 
War he was instrumental in having his son 
fight in the same regiment, and in this con- 
nection, the latter took part in the battle of 
Santiago, Cuba. 

The fraternal affiliation of Mr. Francis 
was with the order of Free and Accepted 
Masons, in which he attained the thirty- 
second degree. He had been a member of 
a New York lodge, of which he became 
grand master, but at the time of his death 
his membership was with Hope Lodge, of 
East Orange, New Jersey, which offici- 
ated at his funeral. He was a life member 
of the New Jersey Historical Society, and 
one of the founders and a lifetime member 
of Christ Qiurch of East Orange. He had 
no connection with any social order. 

Mr. Francis married, in Grace Church, 
Port Huron, Michigan, October 5, 1871, 
Jane Akin, a daughter of Frederick Hoff- 
man and Caroline (Williams) Vander- 



burgh, and a great-granddaughter of Colo- 
nel James Vanderburgh, of Revolutionary 
fame. Children : Caroline Louise, who 
married Lincoln A. Wagenhals, of New 
York City; Arnold William, married Mar- 
garet Andrews ; Alberta Jane, married 
Covert L. Goodlove. 

Mr. Francis was of a quiet and reserved 
nature, making but few friends, but to 
those few he was staunch and true in the 
extreme. He was a man of cultured tastes, 
extremely fond of literature, and one of 
his chief pleasures was the collection of old 
and rare editions, of which he had many 
examples in his fine collection of more than 
three thousand volumes. He took a deep 
interest in the careers of ambitious young 
men who were dependent upon their own 
efforts for rise in life, and it was one of his 
pleasures to start others on the road to 
success which he had so brilliantly traveled. 
Many a young man now in the full tide of 
success owes his first upward step to the 
guidance and substantial assistance given 
him bv Mr. Francis. 



BANISTER, James Albert, 

Prominent Mannfactnrer, Useful Citizen. 

The late James Albert Banister, of New- 
ark, New Jersey, was one of that represen- 
tative class of American citizens of whom 
this country may well feel proud. While 
devoting himself with intense interest to 
furthering the business enterprises with 
which he was connected, he never lost 
sight of the fact that in doing so he could 
also further the interests, to an appreciable 
extent, of the community in which he lived 
as well as those of the country at large. 
For the facts in the following sketch of his 
life we are indebted to his widow, and in 
part we are using her own words. The 
ancestors of Mr. Banister were Scotch- 
English, and were pioneers in the settle- 
ment of Connecticut and Massachusetts. 
They migrated to the wilds of New York 
and Pennsylvania, and bravely endured 



136 





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CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



the numerous hardships with which the 
early settlers were obliged to contend. 
They literally hewed their homes out of 
the virgin forests and established com- 
fortable homesteads. They lived with "an 
axe in one hand and a rifle in the other/' 
while they vigilantly protected their fam- 
ilies from stealthy attacks by the Indians. 
Valuable service as scouts in the early 
wars, an escape from the Wyoming Mas- 
sacre, a life laid down in command in the 
battle of the Minnisink, are prized records 
in the family annals. 

Elijah Bannister,* grandfather of the 
subject of this sketch, during the intervals 
in hunting and farming, took up the mak- 
ing of boots and shoes, and his second 
son, Isaac, at an earlv age left his home in 
order to develop this industry in the vil- 
lage of Mount Hope, Orange county. New 
York, and later in Middletown, New York. 
Isaac Banister was gifted with a fine 
physique and with mental endowments of 
an unusually high order. Without the 
education of higher schools, but with a 
speculative and inventive bent of mind, 
he was a well read man, and a leader in 
public debate so popular at that period. 
Before the age of ten years his son, James 
Albert, was required to read aloud to the 
workmen the best literature procurable, 
on widely diversified subjects. This train- 
ing, in addition to the academic education 
afforded at Middletown, stimulated the 
boy to hope for a college and professional 
course, but it was willed otherwise. His 
father, who had prospered hitherto, en- 
dorsed notes for a supposed friend who 
proved unfaithful and untrustworthy, and 
the savings of years of labor were lost lo 
preserve untarnished the familv name. At 
this juncture the entire familv, consisting 
of the parents and five children came to 
Newark, New Jersey, in 1841, where 



*Bannister was the name form used by Elijah ; 
his son Isaac, used that of Banister, which has 
been followed by his descendants, 

137 



James Albert was placed in the best school 
the city had to oflfer. This, however, he 
found was not in advance of the knowl- 
edge he had already acquired, and he 
determined to turn his attention to busi- 
ness. 

James Albert Banister, son of Isaac and 
Cynthia (Baird) Banister, was born in tlie 
village of Middletown, Orange county, 
New York, in 183 1, and died in Newark, 
New Jersey, February 4, 1906. At the 
time he removed to Newark with his par- 
ents, a boy, as now, who was really willing 
to work, could find it at hand, and prob- 
ably from that time forward until he was 
past middle life, Mr. Banister never knew 
v/hat it was to have an idle day. His first 
venture was in a dry goods store on Mar- 
ket street near Broad. The hours were 
long, especially so on Saturday. There was 
no curfew in Newark, but the night watch 
had a paternal interest in boys who were 
abroad late, and at first he used to accost 
the lad and inquire what business led him 
to walk past the old First Church toward 
the White School House as the clock 
struck one of a Sunday morning. 

With the hope of at some time entering' 
the medical profession, Mr. Banister soon 
found a position where he could at least 
acquire a knowledge of drugs, in the store 
of Roswell Van Buskirk, on the north- 
west corner of Broad and Market streets, 
remaining there until Mr. Banister opened 
a drug store in Paterson, New Jersev, in 
1851. After his marriage in 1852, Mr. 
Banister found that his earnings as a 
druggist were not sufficient to support a 
family, and accordingly he returned to 
Newark, there to become an assistant to 
his father. 

In 1845, his father had established a 
boot and shoe manufactory which had 
prospered steadily. Pleased with his son's 
adaptability and helpful ideas, he admitted 
him to a partnership which was continued 
uninterruptedly until the father's retire- 
ment in 1861. Coincident with the takinsr 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



of a large army contract by James Al- 
bert Banister, was the admission of Lyman 
S. Tichenor into a partnership which con- 
tinued until the death of Mr. Tichenor in 
1881. Mr. Banister then continued the 
business alone until 1892, when he formed 
a stock company of which he became pres- 
ident ; John W. Denny, treasurer ; and 
George E. McLellan, secretary. This cor- 
poration continued until the death of Mr. 
Banister. Since that time, the business 
has been continued as the James A. Banis- 
ter Company. 

Thus we have the brief record of the 
business life of Mr. Banister, and into it 
was crowded great energy and inventive 
genius, with a constant aspiration to be in 
the foremost rank and a determination to 
be strictly conscientious in his relations to 
the trade and to his employees. "No man 
did more to win world-wide recognition of 
the American shoe product, no man lived 
a life of greater activity in the trade, and 
won more laurels with a fuller measure of 
esteem and respect." Above such recogni- 
tion, he valued the trust and affection of 
his employees, into whose personal affairs 
he entered as a friendly helper. Simple 
tastes and unbending integrity character- 
ized his career, and his life was both an 
incentive and an example. 

Absorbing as was his business, it form- 
ed but a small portion of his interest in 
life. From early manhood, he was devot- 
ed to the progress of the church, giving 
his best to the promotion of a higher life 
in religion and in civics. Generous and 
sympathetic, his aid was rendered in a 
quiet manner to many a widow and 
orpan, and "such as had no helper." The 
Young Men's Christian Association in- 
terested him for many years, he was 
chosen president in 1895, and was the in- 
cumbent of this ofifice until his death. He 
was a director of the Home of the Friend- 
less and of the Christian Refuge. He was 
a member of the Newark Board of Trade, 
p'-esident of the Fairmount Cemetery As- 



sociation, and a director of the National' 
Newark Banking Company, the Howard 
Savings Institution, and the American In- 
surance Company. 

This sketch would be incomplete did it 
not contain a mention of the home, the 
very center of his devotion. Mr. Banister 
married, in 1852, Lydia Slater Birdsall, 
who died in 1875. He married (second) 
in 1876, Adelaide Corwin, who survives 
him. By the first marriage there were ten 
children, of whom there are now (19T5) 
living: Isaac ; James Bryan, who succeed- 
ed his father in business ; Albert Lincoln, 
and Arthur Chadwick. The late William 
Jackson Banister was the eldest son. By 
the second marriage there were four chil- 
dren : Ethel Adelaide, who married Dr. 
William Talbot, of Newark ; Dr. Robert 
Louis Banister ; Mary Williams, who mar- 
ried Dr. Harry W.Redfield, of Cornell 
University ; Howell Corwin, who died in 
mfancy. To his family Mr. Banister left 
the best legacy — the memory of a devoted 
Christian life. 



138 



WEST, Charles W., 

Financier, Mannfactnrer. 

Charles W. West, a prominent citizen of 
Elizabeth, New Jersey, was descended 
from an old English family, the members 
of which have for many generations held 
prominent positions in their respective 
communities. 

Colonel Charles A. West, grandfather of 
Charles W. West, distinguished himself in 
the Peninsular War. He was one of the 
founders of that institution in Great 
Britain, known as the Blue Coat School. 

Captain Henry A. West, father of 
Charles W. West, was a member of the 
Twelfth Infantry, in the English army. He 
married a daughter of Sir James Pitcairn, 
whose cousin, the Duchess of Roxborough, 
was lady in waiting to Queen Victoria, and 
the sixth bridesmaid at the latter's wed- 
ding. He was a cousin of Lord Sackville 





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CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



West, at one time English Ambassador to 
the United States, and was descended from 
the Earl De La Warre, known in history 
as Lord Delaware, an early settler of Vir- 
ginia, and founder of the State named after 
him. 

Charles W. West, the subject of this re- 
view, was born April 8, 1834, on board of 
a man-of-war in the Bay of Trafalgar, at 
a time when Captain West, accompanied 
by his wife, was in command of a detach- 
ment of troops on their way from Gibraltar 
to England. He died in his home in Eliza- 
beth, New Jersey, September 17, 1885. He 
acquired a comprehensive education in the 
Blue Coat School founded by his grand- 
father, and, when he had attained man- 
hood, came to America. For a time he 
lived in Brooklyn. About the year 1869 he 
removed to Elizabeth, New Jersey, where 
he resided during the remainder of his life. 
For many years he was a broker, with 
offices at No. 48 Broadway, New York 
City, and was also a member of the firm of 
Leinbach, Wolle & Company, at Trenton, 
New Jersey, which firm originated the self- 
opening paper bag, the forerunner for the 
LTnion Bag. 

Mr. West married. May 24, 1869, Louisa 
A. Arnold, born in Harrow, England, 
March 30, 1844, died in Elizabeth, New 
Jersey, October 21, 1914. The marriage 
took place in Trinity Church, New York 
City. Their children were : Louise Harriet, 
William Ernest. Charles Pitcairn, Con- 
stance Maude, Henry Dalbiac, Amy Eliz- 
abeth, .Arthur Pelham, Alfred Llewellyn, 
and Reginald Arnold. 

Mr. West, although very popular in so- 
cial life, was of a quiet and unassuming 
disposition. He never discussed his family 
connections, and preferred to be known as 
a plain American citizen. Those who knew 
him personally held him in warm regard. 
He thoroughly enjoyed home life, and was 
devoted to his family and friends. He 
gave generously to charity, and was always 
ready to assist anyone in trouble. He was 



a devout churchman, and his high moral 
character is deserving of the greatest com- 
mendation. 



PETERSON, Benjamin, 

Citizen of Sterling Character. 

The history of a State, as well as that of 
a Nation, consists chiefly of the chronicles 
of the lives and deeds of those who have 
conferred honor and dignity upon society, 
whether in the broad sphere of public la- 
bors or in the more circumscribed, yet none 
the less worthy and valuable, of individual 
activity through which the general good is 
ever promoted. The names borne by the 
late Benjamin Peterson and his son, Bertel 
Peterson, have ever stood for the most 
sterling personal characteristics, the deep- 
est appreciation of the rights and privileges 
of citizenship in our great Republic. 

Benjamin Peterson was born in Copen- 
hagen, Denmark, March i, 1843, ^""^ died 
at his home in Paterson, New Jersey, Jan- 
uary 30, 1910. His education was acquired 
in the schools of his native city, and there 
he was apprenticed to learn the cabinet 
maker trade which he followed in Den- 
mark until he was twenty-four years of 
age. He then emigrated to America, deem- 
ing that better opportunities awaited him 
here, and for a time made his home in the 
city of New York, and, in 1869, removed 
to Paterson, New Jersey, where he con- 
tinued to work at his trade. For many 
years he had charge of the carpentering de- 
partment in the Benjamin Eastwood plant. 
He was a devout member of the Fourth 
Baptist Church, and found his chief recre- 
ation in afifairs connected with this institu- 
tion. He was a deacon and trustee in the 
church, superintendent of the Svmday 
school, and at times a teacher of the Bible 
class. One of his chief pleasures was en- 
tertaining the various church members at 
his own home, which was noted for its 
openhanded hospitality. He was also a 
member of the sick visiting committee, and 



139 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



paid the strictest attention to the duties 
connected with this post. In poHtical mat- 
ters he was a Republican, and he was a 
member of the Order of Free and Accept- 
ed Masons, and of the Independent Order 
of Odd Fellows. Mr. Peterson married, 
in 1869, Mary Baxter, who survives him, 
and is living at No. 548 East Twenty- 
fourth street, Paterson. Children : Bertel 
and Mary. 



PETERSON, Bertel, 

Prominent in Mining Enterprises. 

Bertel Peterson, son of Benjamin and 
Mary (Baxter) Peterson, was born in Pat- 
erson, New Jersey, December 3, 1870, and 
died at Los Angeles, California, February 
10, 1909. He was nine years of age when 
his parents removed to the house in which 
his mother is still residing. His education 
was acquired in his native city, and was a 
sound and practical one. 

Shortly after his graduation he com.- 
menced making an especial study of min- 
ing interests, and then went to Mexico, 
and was identified with mining enterprises 
from that time until obliged by ill health 
to take a much needed rest. This, how- 
ever was taken too late, and he sufifered 
from overwork, which resulted in the at- 
tack of typhoid fever which brought on 
death. He was buried in Ivy Hill Ceme- 
tery, Philadelphia, and his father was laid 
at rest beside him in less than a year. The 
first four years that Mr. Peterson passed 
in the west were spent in the emplov of 
the Carman Company, of Philadelphia, 
which had mines at Vilodona. For a short 
time he was connected with the Guggen- 
heim mining interests, and then became su- 
perintendent of the La Forma mine. He 
went to Sonora in 1894 to become man- 
ager for the Grand Central Mining Com- 
pany at that place, retained this position 
five years, then associated himself with 
three other experts, and formed the 
Ajuchitlau Mining and Milling Company, 



at Auerato, near Monterey. He was also 
the manager of the El Rayo Mining Com- 
pany at Chihuahua, Mexico, and while 
there was seized with his final illness. Mr. 
Peterson was a member of the Parral For- 
eign Club, and at the time of his death 
the club house was draped in black as a 
mark of respect to his memory. He was 
also a member of Hiram Lodge, No. 5, 
Ancient Free and Accepted Masons ; a 
Lodge of Sorrow meeting was held in 
memory of the departed brother. He was 
a thirty-second degree Mason, was a 
member of Texas Consistory, No. 3, Royal 
and Select Masters ; and of El Maida 
Temple, Ancient Arabic Order of Nobles 
of the Mystic Shrine. Mr. Peterson had 
joined the Fourth Baptist Church of Pat- 
erson, when quite a youth, and he always 
kept in touch with his Paterson friends, 
one of the most favored of whom was Dr. 
J. A. Reinhart, the principal of the local 
high school. In 1904 Mr. Peterson mar- 
ried Nellie Neilson, of Philadelphia, who 
survived her husband, and is now living in 
Philadelphia with their only child : Bertel 
Neilson. who was born April 25, 1908. 



KIDD, Harry J., 

Prominent Mannf actnrer and Citizen. 

It is not always the men who occupy 
public office who mold public opinion and 
leave their impress upon public life, but 
frequently the men who in the performance 
of their daily duty wield the power that is 
all the more potent from the fact that it 
is moral rather than political, and is exer- 
cised for the public weal rather than for 
personal ends. Of the late Harry J. Kidd, 
of East Orange, New Jersey, it may be 
said that he was one of the prominent busi- 
ness men in his line in the country, and 
was a student of business in all of its com- 
plex and varied interests in relation to the 
trade of the world. He belonged to that 
public-spirited, useful and helpful type of 
man whose ambitions and desires are cen- 



140 





.iXc^c.AJi-'^^ * 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



tered and directed in those channels through 
which flows the greatest and most perman- 
ent good to the greatest number. He was 
in its highest and broadest sense a patriotic 
American citizen, with the truest concep- 
tion of the American idea of the common 
brotherhood of man. His family was num- 
bered among the early settlers in this coun- 
try. Among those families who originally 
received grants from Lord Baltimore were 
the Kidds, and this grant of land has come 
down through the generations to the father 
of Harry J. Kidd, William Kidd, who was 
a typical, old-school, southern gentleman, 
dignified and aristocratic. He married Jane 
Skippon, of English parentage, a gifted 
woman, of ability and high ambitions, qual- 
ities which she transmitted to her four sons 
and two daughters in rich measure, as their 
subsequent careers amply testify. Of all 
the families who originally received grants 
from Lord Baltimore, there are now left 
only the Kidd and the Cross families, these 
estates facing each other across the valley, 
and they have now been united by inter- 
marriage between the families. 

Harry J. Kidd was born at Parkton, Bal- 
timore county, Maryland, about thirty miles 
from the city of Baltimore, June 13, 1864, 
and died at his home. No. 26 Prospect 
street. East Orange, New Jersey, Novem- 
ber 4, 1914, his death being caused by in- 
juries received the preceding day in an au- 
tomobile accident. 

Until the age of fourteen years, Mr. 
Kidd's life was spent on the home planta- 
tion, and he was then sent to Washington, 
District of Columbia, where he resided at 
the home of an aunt and attended school, 
making the best use of his opportunities. 
The indolent life which he would be oblig- 
ed to lead on the plantation was not in ac- 
cordance with the ambitious, energetic na- 
ture he had inherited from his mother, and 
he was but eighteen years of age when he 
decided to make his own way in the world, 
along busier lines than he would be able to 
find at home. With an energy deserving 

141 



of all praise, Mr. Kidd obtained for him- 
self a position as clerk in a leading retail 
shoe store in Washington, and there learn- 
ed all the details of the business in the 
most practical manner, and became an ex- 
pert and valued salesman. In 1892 he form- 
ed a connection with the firm of Johnston & 
Murphy, shoe manufacturers, of Newark, 
New Jersey, and became their representa- 
tive in the Southern States, having full 
charge of their business relations there. He 
largely increased the business of this house, 
and made many personal as well as busi- 
ness friends, during his years of activity 
there. In 1902, in association with Luther 
B. Snyder, he organized the firm of Snyder 
& Kidd, retailing high grade shoes at No. 
121 1 F street. North West, Washington, 
District of Columbia. Five years later he 
was admitted to a partnership in the firm 
of Johnston & Murphy, of Newark, New 
Jersey, the other members at that time 
being Herbert P. Gleason, William J. 
O'Rourke and George D. Gleason. In 
191 1, Mr. O'Rourke withdrew from this 
firm, the Messrs. Gleason and Mr. Kidd 
continuing the business. Mr. Kidd retain- 
ed his interest in the retail business in 
Washington, but gave his personal atten- 
tion to the affairs of the Newark business. 
Until 1907 he had made his home in Wash- 
ington, but at that time he took up his res- 
idence in East Orange, New Jersey, so that 
he might be near the business which claim- 
ed the greater share of his attention. He 
was one of the most popular men in the 
shoe trade in the country, and owed his 
rise in this line of business solely to his 
own efiforts. He was a man of fine per- 
sonal appearance, being nearly six feet in 
height, and well proportioned. He was 
of a genial and pleasant disposition, made 
friends readily, and had the happy faculty 
of retaining them. He had the respect of 
all who knew him for his many sterling 
qualities. He was broadminded and liberal 
in his ideas, and years of travel had brought 
him into close touch with human nature in 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



all its phases. He wielded a wonderful in- 
fluence for good over all with whom he had 
dealings, and was a gladly welcomed figure 
in social circles. He found his greatest 
pleasure, however, in the more confined 
home circle, was a devoted husband and a 
loving and indulgent father. He kept well 
abreast of the times in every respect, giving 
due thought and study to the public 
questions of the day, and formed clear and 
logical deductions. He was generous in his 
support of all projects which had for their 
object some worthy cause. For many years 
he had been an attendant at the Calvary 
Methodist Church, but during the last years 
of his life had given much thought and 
study to Christian Science, in which he had 
become a firm believer. 

Mr. and Mrs. Kidd were returning in 
their electric limousine from a trip through 
the South Mountain Reservation, when on 
Mount Pleasant avenue the brake refused 
to grip, the car was wrecked, and both Mr. 
and Mrs. Kidd were sent to the Memorial 
Hospital in Orange, where the death of 
Mr. Kidd occurred. Mr. Kidd married, in 
Washington, District of Columbia, in Feb- 
ruary II, 1891, Lillian M. Walker, born in 
Washington, a daughter of John C. and 
Margaret J. (Jones) Walker, an old fam- 
ily of Fairfax, Virginia. They have one 
daughter, Dorothy, who was born in 1901. 

"Modern Shoemaking," at the time of 
the death of Mr. Kidd, paid him a fine trib- 
ute, saying in part as follows : 

"A man of positive character, and honest in 
the best and largest sense, Mr. Kidd's loss is 
personal, and profound, in the large circle of 
friends that made up his business and social as- 
sociates. His life was such that we may say with 
Chadwick : 'Thanks be to God that such have 
been though they are here no more.' Those who 
knew Mr. Kidd best valued him most, and his 
character will always remain in their memory as 
a standard of integrity, of high living and high 
thinking, and an example of constant and unob- 
trusive devotion to that which was best worth 
while in this life." 



ing letter, received by its editor from 
George L. Starks, who was in Shreveport, 
Louisiana, at the time, and who was for 
twenty years a personal friend of Mr. 
Kidd: 

"Since last we met the grim old reaper, Death, 
has gathered another one of our mutual friends 
to the bosom of his fathers. One whom to know 
was to love. And, as a prominent shoe retailer of 
Nashville, Tennessee, once told me, to count 
among your friends was an honor, Mr. Harry J. 
Kidd, of the firm of Johnston & Murphy, New- 
ark, New Jersey, who a few days ago met such 
a sad death in an auto accident near his home at 
East Orange, New Jersey. Harry had travelled 
for years in the South for Johnston & Murphy, 
and was loved and respected by all who knew 
him. His loss is a great blow to me. We had 
been friends for more than twenty years, and in 
all that time he was the same cultured, genial gen- 
tleman, always with a pleasant smile, and a kind 
word for all. Never once in my long acquaint- 
ance with him did I ever hear him utter an un- 
kind word as criticism of his fellow men. It 
takes no eloquence or words from me to call 
your attention to his virtues, for to know Harry 
J. Kidd was to read an open book of true man- 
hood. He gave to the world, in sunshine and 
storm, all he had, save honor and manliness, and 
in return received the confidence, friendship and 
respect of all who knew him. His memory will 
live in the hearts of his friends until they, too. 
are called to answer to that to which he and so 
many others of my dear friends and comrades 
have responded. The world is better off be- 
cause Harry J. Kidd lived, and mankind was 
blessed with his gentle, loving manner and pure 
type of manhood. He reflected in mankind the 
great Master's teaching : 'Do unto others as you 
would have them do unto you.' " 



"The Shoe Retailer" printed the follow- 



BROWN, Abel Swan, 

Man of Large Affairs. 

Abel Swan Brown, late of Passaic, New 
Jersey, was a descendant of James Brown, 
one of the early settlers of Hatfield, Mas- 
sachusetts. Rev. Abel Brown, father of 
the Mr. Brown of this sketch, was ordain- 
ed a minister of the Baptist church in 
1837. He was active in the "Underground 
Railway" to assist slaves on their way to 
Canada, and in 1839 was appointed agent 



142 




V — ^'V ^ -^"Z'^.^-zk^t^ty 




i-2^ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



of the Western Education Society, anil 
assisted in raising $80,000 to found a col- 
lege. He had married, in 1835, Mary Ann 
Brigham, who was an active worker in 
the temperance cause, was the founder of 
the Orphans' Home in Albany, and at the 
time of her death at the early age of twenty- 
seven years, editress of "The Golden Rule," 
in that city. Mr. Brown was associated 
with E. W. Goodwin in the publication 
of "The Tocsin of Liberty," at Albany, 
New York, in 1842. He married (second) 
in 1843, Catherine, a daughter of Samuel 
Swan, of Hubbardston, Massachusetts. 
Mrs. Brown was at that time the agent of 
the Eastern New York Anti-Slavery So- 
ciety, and she assisted Mr. Brown at his 
meetings by singing and speaking. Mr. 
Brown died in Canandaigua, New York, 
in 1844, after a short illness, and his widow 
married (second) in 1855. Rev. Charles 
Spear, a Universalist minister of Boston, 
now also deceased. 

Abel Swan Brown, only child of Rev. 
Abel and Catherine (Swan) Brown, was 
born at Hubbardston, Massachusetts. July 
3, 1845, and died at his home in Passaic, 
New Jersey, September 6, 1899. His 
mother having remarried, he was brought 
up by his grandparents in Hubbardston, 
and there attended school until he had at- 
tained the age of sixteen years. He also 
benefited by one term in a Boston school. 
He then obtained a position in the dry 
goods store of Josiah H. Clarke, of Wor- 
cester, Massachusetts, where he soon 
proved his ability as a salesman. He was 
twenty years of age when he entered the 
employ of the firm of Lathrop, Ludington 
& Company, an important dry goods 
house in New York, his uncle, Reuben 
Swan, being a member of the firm. At the 
end of three years he obtained a position 
with H. B. Claflin & Company, of New 
York, and held an important position with 
this firm for a period of eleven years. In 
1880 Mr. Brown organized the Syndicate 
Trading Company, with the main office in 



New York City and branch offices at Man- 
chester, England ; Paris, France ; St. Gall, 
Switzerland; and Chemnitz, Germany. He 
was elected to the presidency of this cor- 
poration, an office he filled with remark- 
able executive ability throughout the re- 
mainder of his life. The original firms 
forming this company were : Adam, Mel- 
drum & Anderson, of Buffalo, New York ; 
Callender, McAuslan & Troup, of Provi- 
dence, Rhode Island ; Brown & Thomp- 
son, of Hartford, Connecticut ; Forbes .t 
Wallace, of Springfield, Illinois ; Sibley, 
Lindsay & Curr, of Rochester, New York ; 
Taylor & Kilpatrick, of Cleveland, Ohio. 
Later, other leading department houses 
joined the concern, until it was composed 
of the largest and most progressive de- 
partment stores of the United States. The 
Syndicate Trading Company grew to be 
the largest business of its kind in the 
country, their annual purchases amount- 
ing to upward of $20,000,000 worth of 
goods annually. When the senior partner 
of Denholm & McKay, one of the firms of 
the Syndicate, died in 1890, Mr. Brown 
acquired a controlling interest in this cor- 
poration, which owned the Boston Store 
in Worcester. He became the president 
of the Boston Store, and after that he 
spent a part of each week in Worcester, 
and the other part in New York. Subse- 
quentlv he held the same official position 
in the Pettis Dry Goods Company, of 
Indianapolis, Indiana; and became vice- 
president of the Callender, Mc.\uslan & 
Troup Company, and of the Doggett Dry 
Goods Company, of Kansas City, Mis- 
souri. 

He made his home in Brooklyn, New 
York, until 1880, when he removed to 
Passaic, New Jersey. After he had be- 
come interested in the Boston Store, in 
Worcester, he made his summer home 
there, calling this "The Hermitage," this 
being one of the "show places" of that 
vicinity. His estate there consists of about 
six hundred and fiftv acres, known as 



143 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



"Wildwood Park," and in this place he 
provided a day of enjoyment, annually, 
for his employees in the Boston Store, 
who came with their families. In Wor- 
cester he attended the Main Street Baptist 
Church, and was a member of llie Bible 
class of the Hon. Joseph H. Walker. 
Later he was a member of the First Bap- 
tist Church of Brooklyn, now known as 
the Baptist Temple. In this he was su- 
perintendent of the financial department, 
a member of the music committee, trustee, 
and chief organizer in 1877 of the Young 
People's Baptist Union, the most active 
organization of that denomination in 
Brooklyn, which has since become a na- 
tional organization of the Baptist denom- 
ination. His wife was also an active work- 
er in the church, both were prominent in 
musical circles, Mr. Brown being president 
of the Amateur Philharmonic Society. 
In Passaic they joined the First Baptist 
Church, of which he was a trustee, and 
chairman of the music committee. He 
took a leading part in the organization of 
the Young Men's Christian Association, 
of Passaic, and was a member of the 
Board of Directors from its inception until 
his death. He was a generous contributor 
to this association, as well as to the Gen- 
eral Hospital, and a number of charitable 
institutions. He was patriotic and public 
spirited to a degree, and organized the 
movement to build the City Hall, one of 
the finest in the entire State ; also the 
public library building and the Passaic 
Club house. In political matters he was 
a stanch Republican, and while his in- 
fluence was a wide spread one for good, 
he consistently declined public ofifice, on 
account of lack of time. He was a mem- 
ber of the New York Chamber of Com- 
merce, and was one of the original com- 
mittee sent to the monetary conference at 
Indianapolis. His social membership, in 
addition to that mentioned above was with 
the Passaic Club, the Worcester Club, 



Tatnuck Country Club, Union League 
Club, Merchants' and Wool Club of New 
York City, and the Kenilworth Literary 
Society of Passaic. 

Mr. Brown married, in June, 1869, 
Charlotte, a daughter of John Connah, 
Jr., and his wife, Keturah E. Connah, of 
New York City, and they had children : 
I. Irving Swan, a real estate dealer in 
New York City, president of what is known 
as the Swan Brown Company. 2. Luther 
Connah, president of the Boston Store, 
Worcester, Massachusetts, as was his 
father. Mrs. Brown resides at the original 
home in Passaic, and is actively interested 
with charitable, philanthropic and reli- 
gious work in that city. Mr. Brown's 
death in the very prime of life was a great 
loss to the mercantile world and was re- 
garded in the light of personal bereave- 
ment by many business friends and em- 
ployees, as well as by his immediate family 
and personal friends. The length of the 
life of such a man is measured by his 
achievements, not by the mere number of 
vears he has counted. The resolutions 
adopted at the time of his death by the 
City Council of Passaic contained the fol- 
lowing paragraph : 

In his private life, in his business career and 
in the active interest taken by him in public af- 
fairs, he has left a noteworthy example and one 
that reflects credit upon himself and luster upon 
the community in which he took such pride. He 
was exemplary in his private life and character, 
a man of liberal disposition, abundant in his be- 
nevolences, which were always bestowed with 
judgment and without ostentation. We record 
with satisfaction the fact that his name has be- 
come widely known and highly esteemed far be- 
yond the city limits in which he lived as a busi- 
ness man of sterling character and unusual ability 
and capacity. On the foundation of strict integ- 
rity and sound business principles he built up a 
large commercial structure, the uprearing and 
conduct of which called for the shrewdest busi- 
ness instinct and sagacity, the most practical com- 
mon sense and unwearying personal energy and 
industry. 



144 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



DRAKE, Edward Cortlandt, 

Merchant, Active in Public Concerns. 

Edward Cortlandt Drake was one of the 
best known and most influential citizens 
of Newark, New Jersey, where he lived 
the greater part of his life. He was a 
member of a prominent and highly re- 
spected family of Morris county in the 
same State, which has made its home for 
a number of generations in the picturesque 
town of Mendham, the family homestead 
being erected there in the year 1743. So 
complete has been the development of the 
Eastern States, and so entirely has every 
trace of past conditions been obliterated, 
that it is practically impossible for those 
who dwell within their borders at the 
present time, sunk in the security and sur- 
rounded with all the circumstances of an 
age-old civilization, to realize how short 
a time has elapsed since their now quiet 
farms and busy cities were parts of an un- 
broken wilderness extending indefinitely 
westward and inhabited by semi-hostile 
savages. And yet it was not so many 
years before the building of the old Drake 
residence that what is now Morris county 
actually lay within such a region and that 
peaceful and familiar Lake Hopatcong 
was but dimly known and then only as a 
rendezvous for the tribes of the Lenni- 
Lenape. 

The town of Mendham itself is one of 
the oldest places in Morris county, and the 
natural beauty of site is taken advantage 
of to the fullest extent by the work of 
man. The wide and tree-bordered streets 
make one think of the typical New Eng- 
land town, and the simple and substantial 
dwellings belong to a period when men 
built for comfort rather than display, and 
for their children as well as themselves. 
Such a house is that of the Drake family, 
where Edward C. Drake first saw the light 
of day. His father, who had always lived 
there, was Colonel James Wills Drake, and 
his mother had been before her marriage, 

11—10 



Nancy Carnes Doty, a member of another 
old New Jersey family. Colonel James 
Wills Drake was a prominent man in his 
neighborhood. He was a surveyor and 
civil engineer by profession, both callings 
for which there was great demand in that 
day, and he was also prominently associat- 
ed with the New Jersey National Guard, 
serving as captain, major and colonel, con- 
secutively, in the Seventy-first Regiment, 
Morris Brigade, under the administration 
of Governor Williamson. He also repre- 
sented his district in the State Legislature 
during the term of 1840-41. His progeni- 
tors were among the first settlers in Mend- 
ham. coming at the same time as the 
Byram, Cary and Thompson families. The 
first person buried in the ancient graveyard 
adjoining the Presbyterian church in 1745 
was Mrs. Drake. On the farm of Colonel 
James Wills Drake, about forty rods from 
his dwelling, there was once an Indian 
village ; arrow heads and other Indian 
relics having there been found in abun- 
dance. In the winter of 1779-80 when the 
American headquarters were at Morris- 
town, a portion of the army were barrack- 
ed in rude log huts in both Mendham and 
Morris townships. The headquarters of 
two of the officers. Colonel Robinson and 
Chevalier ]\Iassillion. a French officer, 
were at the dwelling later occupied by 
Colonel James W. Drake, about a mile 
from Mendham village on the road to Mor- 
ristown, the home at that time of Colonel 
Drake's grandfather. During the sick- 
ness, suffering and want of that winter, 
there were pitted against the barn of Mr. 
Drake at one time forty coffins, that build- 
ing being at the time in use as a hospital. 
Edward Cortlandt Drake was born in 
the old Drake dwelling in Mendham, and 
there passed a considerable portion of his 
childhood, attending private schools in 
that place and in Morristown, where he 
received the general part of his education. 
He later removed to Newark and there 
took a special course at a business college 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



where he finished preparing himself tech- 
nically for the business career for which 
his natural talents fitted him. Somewhat 
later he opened a mercantile house in his 
adopted city, devoting himself to the sale 
of drygoods. 

Mr. Drake's activity was by no means 
measured by his mercantile enterprises, 
however, for though a successful merchant 
whose time was largely occupied in the 
conduct of his business, he nevertheless 
gave generously both of energy and at- 
tention to many other departments of the 
community's life. He was always particu- 
larly interested in the conduct of public 
afTairs from a purely altruistic viewpoint 
and because he truly desired the welfare of 
the community. He never took part in 
politics, as that phrase is used at the pres- 
ent time, although a keen observer of po- 
litical issues, both national and local, and 
a staunch member of the Democratic 
party. He was active only to tlie point 
of doing all that he could in furtherance 
of the principles in which he believed in 
his capacity as a private citizen, but always 
consistently declined the numerous offers 
of office that were tendered him. How 
prominent and influential he was in this 
line, despite his aloofness from the game 
of politics, and how important and popular 
a figure he was in the life of Newark, may 
be gathered from the fact that he was 
mentioned by his party as candidate for 
mayor of the city, but would not himself 
consider it. The last decade of the past 
century was marked in New Jersey by the 
sittings of the important commission ap- 
pointed to revise the system of jurispru- 
dence in the State, and at two successive 
sessions, those of 1803-94, was Mr. Drake 
a member of that honorable body, attend- 
ing its meetings and taking part in its de- 
liberations. 

Mr. Drake was also a member of club 
circles in Newark, and was a member of a 
number of prominent organizations such 
as the Washington Association, the His- 



torical Society of New Jersey, and the 
Essex Club of Newark. No sketch of Mr. 
Drake would be complete without a men- 
tion of the factor of religion and his as- 
sociation with his church extending over 
a long period of years. He was an Epis- 
copalian in belief, and was a member of 
long standing in Grace Episcopal Church 
of Newark. He was active in the work 
of the parish, holding the office of vestry- 
man for overy thirty years, and supported 
materially the many philanthropies in con- 
nection therewith. 

Mr. Drake married, March 28, i860, in 
Elizabeth, New Jersey, Mary Jane Wood- 
ruff, a resident of that place, and a daugh- 
ter of Stephens Haines and Abigail Ogden 
(Meeker) Woodruff, well known people of 
Elizabeth. To Mr. and Mrs. Drake were 
born five children, as follows : Nicholas 
Murray, deceased ; Mary C, who became 
Mrs. Howell, now deceased ; Gertrude 
Woodruff ; Helen Esther, now Mrs. Wil- 
liam Chauncey Coles, of Summit: Edwina, 
now Mrs. Archibald E. Montgomery, of 
Tenaflv. 



BALL, James Thomas, 

Prominent Merchant, Esteemed Citizen. 

James T. Ball was of the sixth Ameri- 
can generation of the Ball family, and of 
the sixth generation of his direct ancestors 
in Newark. Edward Ball, of the ancient 
English family first mentioned in the Book 
of Domesday, came from England in the 
year 1665, first making settlement at Bran- 
ford, Connecticut. The English family of 
Ball bore arms thus described in Burke: 
"Out of a ducal coronet a hand and arm, 
embowered in mail, grasping a fireball, all 
proper." 

That Edward Ball, of Branford and 
Newark, New Jersey, and Colonel William 
Ball, settled at St. Mary's, Virginia, in 
1657, sprang from the same stock, there is 
little doubt, but no known connection can 
be shown. The Balls of Virginia, from 



146 





ctec 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



whom President Washington maternally de- 
cended, and the Balls of Newark, New Jer- 
sey, both have ample claim to distinction and 
neither need depend on the other for great- 
ness yet they probably sprang from a com- 
mon ancestor. 

Edward Ball did not long remain in Con- 
necticut, but short as the time was, he there 
married Abigail Blatchley, and the same 
year he appears as one of the Twelve Pro- 
prietors of the town of Newark, his first 
date of residence being October 30, 1665. 
He was then about twenty-five years of 
age, and a man of importance in the set- 
tlement on the "Passaick" and in the coun- 
ty of Essex, for he filled many town of- 
fices, and in 1692 and 1693 was high sher- 
iiJ of the county. His last appearance in 
public life was as a member of the grand 
jury in 1709 and 1710. Abigail Blatchley, 
wife of Edward Ball, was a daughter of 
Thomas Blatchley, also an Englishman and 
a resident of Branford. Children : Caleb, 
Joseph, Moses, Thomas; Abigail, married 
Daniel Harrison; Lydia, married Joseph 
Peck. 

Thomas, youngest son of Edward and 
Abigail (Blatchley) Ball, was born in New- 
ark, in 1687, and there spent his life, dying 
in 1744, the old cemetery of Newark being 
his burial place. He left to his nine sons 
four hundred acres of land, but all except 
a portion left to Aaron, his second son, has 
passed out of the family. He married 
Sarah Davis, who survived him over thir- 
ty-four years, dying February i, 1778, aged 
eighty-seven years, a daughter of Thomas 
Davis, who in his will named "Sarah, wife 
of Thomas Ball." She is buried in the old 
graveyard at Connecticut Farms (Union, 
New Jersey), where she slept undisturbed 
while two years later (June, 1780), over 
her grave the battle was raging in which 
a dozen of her descendants took part, one 
of whom, Samuel Ball, son of Ezekiel, was 
mortally wounded. Children of Thomas 
Ball : A daughter, died unmarried ; Timo- 
thy, married Esther Bruen ; Aaron, mar- 



ried Hannah Camp; Apphia, married Si- 
mon Learing; Nathaniel, married Esther 
Osborn ; Ezekiel, of further mention. 

From an old tombstone in the church 
graveyard at Connecticut Farms, this in- 
scription is taken : "Here lies the body of 
Sarah, wife of Thomas Ball who died Feb- 
ruary A. D., 1778, in the 88th year of her 
age." 

Ezekiel, sixth child and fourth son of 
Thomas and Sarah (Davis) Ball, seems to 
have been overlooked by the biographers 
and record keepers of his day, as there 
is nothing to show the date of his birth or 
death, nor whom be married. He left five 
sons: Stephen, a surgeon of the Continen- 
tal army ; Timothy, Edward, William ; Sam- 
uel, of further mention. 

Samuel, second son of Ezekiel Ball, was 
an officer of the Revolutionary army, and 
at the battle of Connecticut Farms, fought 
in June, 1780, against the British, received 
a mortal wound. He married and left 
three sons : Oliver, of further mention ; 
Gardner and Samuel. 

Oliver, eldest son of Samuel Ball, the 
Revolutionary patriot, died in Newark, in 
1845, Siged sixty-six years. He married 
Elizabeth Ward, who died in 1865, aged 
eighty-four years. His four sons were: 
Edwin N., a real estate dealer of Newark; 
Augustus I., member of the carriage man- 
ufacturing firm of Quinby & Company, 
Newark; Hooper C, a manufacturing jew- 
eler of Newark; Horace W., of further 
mention. His three daughters, Harriet, 
Matilda and Julietta married, respectively, 
Abraham Johnson, of Lyons Farms, George 
Rolff, of Danbury, Connecticut, and Hor- 
ace Ailing, of Newark. 

Horace W., youngest son of Oliver and 
Elizabeth (Ward) Ball, was born, lived 
and died in Newark, where during his bus- 
iness life he was a manufacturing jeweler. 
He married Elizabeth Daniels, and left 
sons, Alfred P. and James Thomas. 

James Thomas, son of Horace W. and 
Elizabeth (Daniels) Ball, was born in New- 



147 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ark, New Jersey, July 14, 1846, and after 
a useful life of fifty-two years died there 
January 7, 1898. He attended Hedges' 
private school in Newark, but he was a 
youth of such delicate health that he was 
taken out of school and sent abroad, where 
he spent several years in travel and with 
relatives in England. Returning home 
with greatly improved health, and having 
decided upon a mercantile life, he joined 
forces in 1865 with James Marshall and 
opened a clothing store at the corner of 
Broad and Bridge streets, Newark, under 
the firm name of Marshall & Ball, a name 
that became a household word in Newark 
and northern New Jersey. They prospered 
in their new venture, and in a short time re- 
moved their store to a more central part of 
the city, choosing a site opposite the New 
Jersey Central railroad station. These 
quarters soon proving insufficient to accom- 
modate their business, the young partners 
moved to the present location, 807-810 
Broad street. The history of Marshall & 
Ball covering the period of 1865-1898 was 
one of success and expansion. For thirty- 
three years Mr. Ball gave it his strict per- 
sonal attention, and incorporated into the 
business the strong phases of his personal 
character, honesty and square dealing. Re- 
garding his personal honor as sacred, he 
placed the same high valuation upon his 
business honor, and "quality" became the 
store motto. No article was placed on sale 
that he could not conscientiously vouch for, 
and to quality was added the "square deal" 
with all patrons. On this foundation Mar- 
shall & Ball built, and to this day adhere. 
He was liberal m his treatment of employ- 
ees, and as men proved their loyalty and 
worth they were given profit sharing inter- 
est in the business. He builded well, and 
after half a century his work endures. 

Mr. Ball was most kindly hearted and 
genial in disposition, possessing the quality 
of not only attracting friends but of hold- 
ing them. He belonged to several clubs in 
Newark, and was everywhere a social fav- 
orite. He belonged to the Masonic order, 



affiliated with St. John's Lodge of Newark, 
and held in the order, as in the business 
and social world, the undivided love and 
respect of his associates. His clubs were 
the Essex, Republican, and Essex and New- 
ark County Country Club of Orange, the 
New York, Knickerbocker and Chelsea of 
New York. In political faith a Republi- 
can, he was one of the presidential electors 
on the McKinley ticket in 1896. 

His religious affiliation was with Trinity 
Protestant Episcopal Church, which he 
served as vestryman. He gave liberally to 
all worthy objects, and from whatever 
angle his life may be viewed there is no 
room for unfriendly criticism. He was a 
wise, progressive business man, a public- 
spirited citizen, a loyal friend, and consis- 
tently faithful to all religious or moral ob- 
ligations. He bore well his part in the 
development of his city, and rendered to 
every man his due. 

Two hundred and three years after his 
great-great-great-great-grandfather, Ed- 
ward Ball, married Abigail Blatchley, in 
Connecticut, James T. Ball returned to the 
same State for his bride, and on Decem- 
ber 2, 1868, he married, at Stamford, Mary 
F., daughter of Thomas and Caroline 
Dunn. He married (second) Mary Eliz- 
abeth, daughter of George B. Jenkinson. of 
Newark. Children, all by first wife: i. 
James Marshall, deceased. 2. Elizabeth. 

3. Mary Isabel, married Gifford. 4. 

Florence Louise, deceased. 5. Frederick 
W., who continues the business of Marshall 
& Ball; he married Bertha Duren, daugh- 
ter of George B. and Elizabeth Duren, 
there are two sons — James T. and Freder- 
ick W. Jr. 6. Elsie, youngest child of 
James T. Ball, is deceased. 



148 



NELSON, William, 

lawyer, HistoriaiL, Litterateur. 

"An open book to him New Jersey lay, 
The annals of her fortune fairly writ; 

A scene each page by fact or fancy lit, 
Wherein their parts did many actors play; 

He mark'd the Pilgrim founder win his way 




T\kii^;^^ ylri^Tv 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Amid the wild with piety and wit ; 
The Redman saw beyond the mountain flit, 
Yet learned his language, and his simple lay. 

"Or colony or sovereign State, he knew 
Her laws, her legends and her noted men; 

Her roads he saw by stage and motor-car 
Travers'd, and how canal and railway grew — 

The leaves were turn'd till twilight fell, and then 
He clos'd the book, and life's full calendar." 

The above beautiful lines by Joseph F. 
Folsom are a fitting introduction to a re- 
view of the life of the late William Nelson, 
a man whose name is known throughout 
the country. In matters of biography, 
local history and genealogy he was con- 
sidered an authority, and in this connec- 
tion was in constant correspondence with 
men and women in every State in the 
Union. From his earliest youth these 
fields contained matter of interest to him, 
and in the course of time he had so identi- 
fied himself with his research work that he 
became an expert of high standing. But 
it was not with these matters alone that 
Mr. Nelson was identified. On questions 
of religion he was equally well versed, and 
in matters of charity and philanthropy 
there was no more enthusiastic worker. 

William Nelson, son of William and 
Susan (Cherry) Nelson, and grandson of 
Thomas and Jane (Coulter) Nelson, was 
born February lo, 1847, and died August 
10, 1914. The public schools of Newark, 
New Jersey, furnished him with educa- 
tional advantages, and he was graduated 
from the high school in the class of 1862. 
His literary ability was already noticeable 
during his school years, and he was chosen 
as one of the editors of the high school 
paper, for which he wrote a story entitled 
"Isabel, a Tale of the Mexican Banditti," 
which he reprinted in 1884. He was but 
sixteen years of age when he became .1 
reporter on "The Daily Advertiser." He 
then spent two years in teaching English 
in the German schools in Newark and 
South Orange, and in 1865 he taught a dis- 
trict school at Connecticut Farms, now 
Union. Removing to Paterson, New Jer- 

149 



sey, on June 19, 1865, that city was his 
place of residence from that time until his 
death. He became a reporter on the staflF 
of "The Paterson Press," giving his at- 
tention to this vocation for a period of ten 
years, during which time he utilized his 
spare moments in the study of the law, a 
study he later continued in the office of the 
Hon. John Hopper. His studies not hav- 
ing been pursued regularly, it was not 
until 1878 that Mr. Nelson was admitted 
to the bar, but in the meantime he had 
been of great service to his city owing to 
his knowledge of the law, and had become 
a public man of no mean reputation. In 
April, 1868, he was elected a member of 
the Paterson Board of Education. In 
1869 he drafted a supplement to the city 
charter, altering the provisions relating to 
the Board of Education ; and in 1871 he 
drew up on original lines a new charter for 
the city, which for the most part is still 
in operation.. In May, 1871, he was elect- 
ed clerk of the Passaic County Board of 
Chosen Freeholders, and was re-elected 
annually until 1894. In 1877 he was ap- 
pointed clerk of the Paterson District 
Court, holding this office for ten vears. 
In 1902 he was appointed United States 
Commissioner, an office he held for twelve 
years, during which time many noted 
counterfeiters and offenders were haled be- 
before him. His resignation from this of- 
fice was on account of failing health. On 
numerous occasions he was honored by 
being selected as delegate to National, 
State, Congressional and local conventions 
of the Republican party. At the Republi- 
can National Convention at Chicago, Mr. 
Nelson was the first officer of the conven- 
tion to announce to General Benjamin Har- 
rison his nomination for the presidency. 

Yet all these demands upon his time did 
not prevent his taking an active part in 
the development of the religious, social, 
historical and literary circles of the citv. 
For many years Mr. Nelson served on 
the advisory board of the Paterson Gen- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



eral Hospital, and he was also a trustee of 
the Pennington Methodist Seminary. His 
religious membership was with the First 
Presbyterian Church, on Main street, and 
in this he served as elder and as clerk of 
the session. In 1893 was printed "The 
First Presbyterian Church of Paterson, 
New Jersey," being compiled by Mr. Nel- 
son from records of the church running 
from 1813 to 1891. Later he became a 
member of the Presbyterian Church of the 
Redeemer, on Broadway. As a teacher of 
a Bible class, his expounding of the Scrip- 
tures, and his faithful, conscientious in- 
struction, gained a large attendance. 
Throughout his life his interest in church 
affairs was an active one, and this was 
evident in the support he gave to the Sun- 
day vesper services on Half Moon Bay, 
Thousand Islands, where he was accus- 
tomed to spend his summers. Following 
is a communication received after the 
death of Mr. Nelson: 

"One of the spots which Mr. Nelson loved best 
was the Thousand Islands of the St. Lawrence 
river. Here for the past fifteen years he spent 
his summer months at his home on Cherry Island, 
one of the beautiful islands on the Canadian side 
of the St. Lawrence. He greatly enjoyed the 
simple, wholesome life which did much during 
the past few seasons to restore his failing 
strength, but after the summer of nineteen hun- 
dred and twelve his physician advised his not 
going so far from home. This was a great dis- 
appointment to Mr. Nelson, and only the night 
before he died he remarked that if he could get 
to Cherry Island he would feel well on the road 
to recovery. 

"A beautiful and unique feature of the life on 
the St. Lawrence is the Sabbath evening service 
which is held in Half Moon Bay, a sheltered nook 
with overhanging rocks and a veritable nature's 
temple. Here the islanders gather, remaining in 
their boats, while a simple service is conducted 
by a noted divine, and sometimes by a layman, 
from a rough rock pulpit on the shore. 

"When the news of Mr. Nelson's death reached 
the friends and neighbors in the Thousand Isl- 
ands, a very simple and beautiful memorial ser- 
vice was held in Half Moon Bay. Mr. Edward 
Dickson, of Toronto, conducted the service, from 
which we quote the following : 'All who gather 



here tonight know of Mr. Nelson's deep interest 
in and great enjoyment of this beautiful feature 
of our island life, and of how faithfully he al- 
ways supported these services. Mr. Nelson was 
a member of the committee having the services 
in charge, and often secured the supplies for the 
pulpit and frequently took the service himself. 
One summer, while all the other members of the 
committee were away, Mr. Nelson became re- 
sponsible for all the work connected with these 
gatherings. We all knew him and loved him, 
and we shall greatly miss him from our Island 
circle, especially when we gather here, and al- 
ways when we sing, as we shall now do in closing 
this simple memorial service, Mr. Nelson's fav- 
orite evening hymn : 

" 'Now the day Is over, night ie drawing nigh, 
Shadows of the evening, steal across the sky, 

Jesus, grant the weary, calm and sweet repose. 
With Thy tenderest blessings, may mine eyelids 
close.' " 

Mr. Nelson married, in 1872, Martha 
Buckley, daughter of the late Mayor Ben- 
jamin Buckley, of Paterson, New Jersey. 
Mrs. Nelson died in 1885. On July 25, 
1889, Mr. Nelson married Salome Wil- 
liams Doremus, datighter of Henry C. 
and Ann Eliza (Banta) Doremus, and his 
home life was an exceptionally happy one. 
True companionship and cheerful, sympa- 
thetic co-operation were his in every phase 
of his life, and the home was one of culture 
and warm-hearted sociability. When ill 
health overtook Mr. Nelson, the co-opera- 
tion of his wife became especially valuable, 
and this was given with an efficiency which 
was invaluable. During the last summer 
of his life, Mr. Nelson was too ill to bear 
the long trip to the St. Lawrence and the 
benefit of mountain air was sought at 
Matamoras. Pennsylvania, where he pass- 
ed away in August, and was buried in 
Cedar Lawn Cemetery, Paterson. The 
expressions and tokens of love, respect 
and sympathy were innumerable and sin- 
cere, and many found their way into print. 
As an example of what Mr. Nelson was in 
his home life, a letter by his former sten- 
ographer. Miss Ella M. Hill, is quoted in 
part : "Often, in my own home and to 
others, I ha\'e made the remark that a 
stenographer had an excellent opportunity 



ISO 



I 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



to know the man by whom she was em- 
ployed, and I have always been proud to 
say that in the four and a half years that 
I spent in Mr. Nelson's office, I never saw 
one thing that was not absolutely gentle- 
manly and honorable." 

Mr. Nelson was connected with numer- 
ous organizations of varied scope and 
character, either as a corresponding, hon- 
orary or regular member; among the lat- 
ter we find the following: New Jersey 
Historical Society, Washington Associa- 
tion of New Jersey, American Historical 
Association, American Bar Association, 
Revolutionary Memorial Society of New 
Jersey, American Association for the Ad- 
vancement of Science, American Anthro- 
pological Association, American Biblio- 
graphical Society, American Folk-Lore 
Society, American Antiquarian Society, 
New York Historical Society, Pennsyl- 
vania Historical Society, Alabama His- 
torical Society, Minnesota Historical So- 
ciety, New England Historical and Gen- 
ealogical Society, New York Genealogical 
and Biographical Society, Hamilton Club 
of Paterson, Drawing Room Club of Pat- 
erson, Nassau Club of Princeton, Grolier 
Qub of New York, Carteret Book Club 
of Newark, Bibliophile Society of Boston, 
Brothers of the Book, and the Ganonoque, 
Ontario, Yacht Club. .All of these bodies 
sent resolutions of sympathy at the time 
of his death. 

While a part of the literary work of Mr. 
Nelson consists of legal essavs, the bulk 
of it has to do with historical, biograph- 
ical, ethnological and antiquarian subjects. 
A great number of his publications were 
first given to the world in the form of ad- 
dresses before learned bodies, among 
these being: "Alexander Hamilton in 
New Jersey,"' which was originally read 
before the Washington Association of 
New Jersey, in Morristown, February 22, 
1897; "Life of William Colfax." was read 
before the New Jersey Historical Society, 
January 10, 1876; "Discovery and Early 

151 



History of New Jersey," was read before 
the Passaic County Historical Society, 
June II, 1872. His contributions to the 
press were frequent, and mainly related to 
historical subjects. The Paterson History 
Club published a number of his pamphlets. 
The last large publication which bore his 
name was "Nelson's Biographical Cyclo- 
pedia," issued in two volumes in 1913, by 
The Eastern Historical Publishing Com- 
pany of New York. Works of this nature 
become indispensable to those engaged in 
genealogical, biographical or historical 
work, and this Cyclopedia is one of an ex- 
ceptionally high standard. Among the 
monograph writings of Mr. Nelson we 
find : "Summary of the Law of New Jer- 
sey in Relation to Public Bridges," "Early 
Will-Making in New Jersey," "The Law 
of Marriage and Divorce in New Jersey," 
"Jos. Coerten Hornblower, Chief Justice 
of New Jersey 1832-1846." "Clifford Stan- 
ley Sims — Soldier, Statesman, Jurist," 
"Genealogy of the Doremus Family in 
New Jersey," "The Indians of New Jer- 
sey," and "Indian Personal Names in New 
Jersey." 

Mr. Nelson was elected a member of the 
New Jersey Historical Society in 1872, 
and in June of that year he read before 
the Passaic County Historical Society one 
of his first papers, "Discovery and Early 
History of New Jersey." From that time 
until his death, he never lost his enthusi- 
asm in collecting, preserving, and present- 
ing all phases of New Jersey history. His 
essays on this subject have become stand- 
ard references, and for many years he has 
been regarded as an authority on all mat- 
ters connected with the history of New 
T^Tsey. In 1880 he was elected to suc- 
ceed .Adolphus P. Young as recording sec- 
retary of the society, and, while the in- 
cumbent of this office, commenced editing 
ihe .Archives of the State of New Jersey," 
bringing out Volume IX of the First 
Series in 1885, in association with Fred- 
erick W. Ricord, and Volume X in 1886. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



In 1890 Mr. Nelson was elected corres- 
ponding secretary of the society, an office 
he held continuously until his death, dur- 
ing this time corresponding with people all 
ov€r this country, and with many in for- 
eign lands. In 1890 he also again collab- 
orated with Judge Ricord, bringing out 
Volumes XIII, XIV and XV, containing 
the "Journal of the Governor and Council 
of New Jersey." Being then engaged in 
other work, he allowed Judge Ricord to 
carry on the work alone to Volume XIX, 
but Mr. Nelson brought out Volume XI 
in 1894, this commencing a series of vol- 
umes devoted to extracts from American 
newspapers relating to New Jersey, and 
this was followed by Volume XII. With 
but few breaks, this series, commenced in 
1704, has been brought up to 1780, the 
manners and customs of New Jersey dur- 
ing this period being shown in most avail- 
able form. The activity of Judge Ricord 
in connection with this work ceased in 
1893, and Mr. Nelson edited the succeed- 
ing volumes alone, the one most frequent- 
ly consulted being ^^olume XXIII, pub- 
lished in 191 1, and containing his "Ab- 
stracts of Wills." In 1895, when the His- 
torical Society celebrated its fiftieth an- 
niversary, Mr. Nelson, as corresponding 
secretary, published his "Semi-Centennial 
Celebration," as Volume VIII of the Col- 
lections of the Society, and it is the only 
volume edited or compiled by him. He 
has, however, aided in the compilation and 
editing of the "Proceedings of the So- 
ciety" since 1885. 

He was a tireless and conscientious 
worker, and every letter was answered, 
however trifling the communication might 
have been. His colleagues on the board 
of trustees remember with pleasure the 
monthly reports of his labors in corres- 
ponding, how in detail and in variety they 
abounded in information, the best of which 
was annually presented in a full report to 
the society, and later printed in the "Pro- 
ceedings." During the last weeks of his 



life, when other earthly interests com- 
menced to fade, those of his historical 
work still remained with him, and were 
able to lighten his hours of pain to a cer- 
tain extent. It was the endurance of Wil- 
liam Nelson in the field of history that 
won for him recognition and reputation 
that makes it a pleasure for his surviving 
contemporaries to crown his memory with 
love and honor. While the limits of this 
article make it impossible to reprint all the 
resolutions which were offered at the time 
of the death of Mr. Nelson, we quote from 
two of them : 

In the death of William Nelson, August 10, 
1914, the New Jersey Historical Society suffers 
an unusual loss. Men may come and men may 
go and the world still moves, yet there are 
spheres in which the loss of but one active spirit 
may appreciably slacken the wheels of progress. 
Such a world is our Society and such a spirit 
was that of our departed corresponding secretary. 

His place was unique, because in himself were 
the peculiar qualities and efficiencies which made 
his office prominent and useful not only in New 
Jersey historical circles but throughout the 
United States. His efficiency as a local historian 
was the result of years of research, investigation 
and authorship. His knowledge of original 
sources was intimate, his zeal for discovering 
facts was inextinguishable, and his publications 
make an extensive bibliography. 

The by-products of his talents would make, if 
printed, a large library, a small part only of which 
may be found in the annual reports presented to 
this Society in the form of answers to inquiries. 
Add to this mass of information his verbal com- 
ments and answers to endless queries and the 
imagination halts in wonder. 

Recognizing the vast range of knowledge which 
Mr. Nelson had covered, and his valuable literary 
contributions to the state of New Jersey and to 
historical research in general, Princeton Univer- 
sity conferred upon him in 1896 the degree of 
.'\. M., and an alcove in the University Library 
was named "The Nelson .A.lcove." in honor of 
his historical and literary contributions. 

Some later and more extended tribute will de- 
tail the labors of William Nelson ; the intent of 
this minute is briefly to express for the Society, 
its officers and members, that deep regret and sin- 
cere appreciation which his passing compels. 

His many excellent qualities and his relations 
to domestic, social, political, professional and re- 



152 





^^^^^i^^Ui, 



A 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ligious circles are best known to his former as- 
sociates. To the New Jersey Historical Society 
he is best known as a historian, and a kindly, 
obHging and faithful officer. The work done by 
him as editor of the Archives and of the Pro- 
ceedings will stand as long as the Society en- 
dures. 

The officers and members of the Society, re- 
membering with gratitude the services of this ef- 
ficient beloved officer, desire to express to his be- 
reaved wife Mrs. Nelson their sincere sympathy. 
and to assure her of their trust that she may be 
comforted and sustained by Him who ruleth all 
things, however painfully, for our good. 

Frederick A. Canfield. 

J. Lawrence Boggs. 

Joseph F. Folsom. 
Committee on Resolutions. 

Resolved, That the Bar Association of Passaic 
County desires herewith to record its sense of 
loss arising from the death of the late William 
Nelson, which occurred during the past summer 
vacation, and who for many years was a well 
known member of the Bar of Passaic County ; as 
well as to record its recognition of the many fine 
qualities possessed by our deceased member as a 
lawyer, and the learning and ability which he de- 
voted to the affairs of his clients entrusted to his 
care; and 

Be it further resolved, That these resolutions 
be spread in full upon the minutes of the Asso- 
ciation, and also upon the minutes of the Passaic 
County Circuit Court. 

William A. Sumner, 
Frederick W. Van Blarcom. 
Peter J. McGinnis, 

Committee on Resolutions. 



RANKIN, John Chambers, Jr., 

Man of Affairs, Public Official. 

New Jersey is justly proud of the purity of 
her public record, and of the fact that the 
monster. Fraud, rarely dares appear within 
the confines of her government. This state 
of affairs is created and maintained only by 
the constant vigilance and unwearied labors 
of public-spirited citizens — citizens of the 
type of the late John Chambers Rankin, 
Jr., ex-mayor of Elizabeth. His interest in 
all matters relative to the city's welfare was 
deep and sincere, and wherever substantial 
aid would further public progress it was 
freely given. His clear head, well-trained 

153 



business mind, combined with progressive 
ideas, made his assistance in city affairs in- 
valuable. 

His father. Rev. John Chambers Rankin, 
was a Presbyterian missionary to Hindoo- 
stan, India, and married Sarah Trimble 
Comfort, a daughter of Rev. David Com- 
fort, for half a century pastor of the Pres- 
byterian church at Kingston, New Jersey. 
Mr. and Mrs. Rankin lived at Simla, Hin- 
doostan, many years, all their children being 
born there. Among them, in addition to 
ex-Mayor John Chambers Rankin, were: 
Walter L., who was at one time principal 
of School No. I, Elizabeth, New Jersey, 
president of Carroll College, Waukesko, 
Wisconsin, died July 20, 1910; Sarah T., 
who married Robert T. Arrowsmith, of 
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania : Rev. Edward P., 
pastor of the Presbyterian church at Shaw- 
ano, Wisconsin. Upon his return to this 
country. Rev. Rankin became the pastor 
of Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church, 
and was the incumbent of this for a period 
of forty-four years. He died in 1900. 

Ex-Mayor John Chambers Rankin Jr. 
was born in Simla, Hindoostan, July 15, 
1847, ^nd died at the Elizabeth General 
Hospital, after an operation for the remov- 
al of cancer, March 20, 1903. He became 
a student at the Basking Ridge Academy, 
where he received his preparation for a uni- 
versity career. He then matriculated at 
Princeton University, becoming a member 
of the class of 1867, but left this institution 
in 1866, preferring to devote his energies 
to business life for which he felt himself 
well fitted. The results he achieved proved 
the correctness of this action. In Septem- 
ber of 1867 he accepted a position in the 
stationery and printing establishment of 
William H. Arthur, at the corner of Liber- 
ty and Nassau streets. New York City, and 
was later associated in the same line of bus- 
iness with E. Wells Sackett. This associa- 
tion proved so profitable a one to the firm 
that, in January, 1881, Mr. Rankin was ad- 
mitted as a member of it, the style being 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



changed to E. Wells Sackett & Rankin. 
Subsequently Mr. Rankin purchased the in- 
terests of the senior partner, and became 
the sole proprietor of the business, which 
he reorganized in January, 1891, under the 
corporation laws of the State of New Jer- 
sey, the concern being known as the John 
C. Rankin Company. They located at No. 
34 Cortlandt street, New York City, and 
it is one of the largest printing and station- 
ery houses in the city. The business abili- 
ties of Mr. Rankin were in request in many 
other directions, and he served as a direc- 
tor of the Union County Trust Company, 
Elizabeth. 

To give a full account of the public ser- 
vices of Mr. Rankin would necessitate giv- 
ing the public history of the city for almost 
a quarter of a century in detail. From the 
time he attained his majority he was an ac- 
tive worker in the interests of the Repub- 
lican party. His public career commenced 
with his election to the Board of Education 
in 1877, by the Republicans of the Fourth 
Ward. He served three terms in this hon- 
orable body, was president of the Board in 
1879 and 1880, and introduced many bene- 
ficial innovations. Elected a member of the 
City Council in 1 881, he served seven years 
in that body, during four of which he was 
president of the council. He was elected 
mayor of the city in 1889, and served eight 
and a half years, and guided the city safe- 
ly through some of its most trying days. 
Of his line of conduct while at the head of 
city affairs, Mr. Frank Bergen has the fol- 
lowing to say : 

I was associated for more than ten years with 
Mr. Rankin, in the service of the city, through 
a very trying period of the city's history, and I 
learned to know him well. He was a brave and 
forceful man. I never knew anyone more loyal 
to a cause or to a friend than he. His eagerness 
to accomplish his objects sometimes led him to 
make exertions too great even for his strength. 
He was too generous to spare himself, even 
when there seemed to be no great necessity for 
extremely hard work. This was particularly so 
in his discharge of his duties as a public official. 



In any community such a man as Mr. Rankin 
would soon and very naturally become a leader, 
and it is a comfort to his friends to remember 
that his work for the city was marked by a high 
degree of intelligence and a full measure of suc- 
cess. As a member of the City Council and pres- 
ident of that body, during the years when the 
city government seemed about to fall to pieces 
under the pressure of financial burdens, he was 
full of resources, and tireless not only in work- 
ing himself, but in urging others to do all in their 
power to extricate the city from its embarrass- 
ment. He tried to apply to the city's affairs the 
same business methods whereby he succeeded in 
his own business, and the result was beneficial 
and gratifying. 

Mr. Rankin was appointed a member of 
the State Board of Assessors, by Governor 
Voorhees, in January, 1901, and in 1902 
was chosen president of the board, an office 
of which he was the incumbent at the time 
of his death. His term would have ex- 
pired, January 29, 1905. The only time 
that Mr. Rankin was defeated in a political 
contest was in 1893, for the office of State 
Senator for Union County, when Fred C. 
Marsh was elected. The religious affilia- 
tion of Mr. Rankin was with the Westmin- 
ster Presbyterian Church, of Elizabeth, of 
which he was a member. He was a mem- 
ber of many organizations, among them 
being: Washington Lodge, Free and Ac- 
cepted Masons, of which he was a past 
master ; Court Columbus. Independent 
Order of Foresters ; Mattano Club, of Eliz- 
abeth : Elizabeth Town and Country Club ; 
Suburban Golf Club, Unionville, New Jer- 
sey : Baltusrol Golf Club, Baltusrol, New 
Jersey ; all of these organizations placing 
their flags at half mast at the time of the 
death of Mr. Rankin, and formulating suit- 
able resolutions. 

Mr. Rankin married in Belvidere, New 
Jersey, November 29, 1870, Anna Alethea, 
a daughter of Samuel Tyler and .A.nn Pin- 
ner (Freeman) Dickinson, and made his 
home in Elizabeth, to which city he had 
removed in 1869. They had children : 
Anna, born August 20, 1871, died the same 
day ; Edna Dickinson, born September 16, 



154 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



1873, widow of George W. Rogers ; Nellie 
Ives, born August 21, 1875, wife of James 
Leon Alexander; Mabel Norton, born Jan- 
uary 5, 1878, died August 16, 1889; Anna 
Alethea, bom October 16, 1881, wife of 
Ralph Manning Brown ; Ethel Rumple, 
born November 8, 1883, wife of James 
Burke Irwin. 

No better estimate can be given of the 
character of Mr. Rankin than that express- 
ed by ex-Governor Voorhees, a few ex- 
tracts from which are here given : 

Few men succeed in so strongly impressing 
their personality upon a community as did Mr. 
Rankin. Few are better or more intimately 
known by their associates. He made his influ- 
ence felt by reason of the strength of his charac- 
ter and his untiring labor. The estimation in 
which he was held is best shown by repeated calls 
to public office. In every position he distinguished 
himself for his faithfulness and zeal for the pub- 
lic good. His loyalty to the city was intense, and 
his devotion to its interests unceasing. When 
elected mayor he found the people despondent, 
disheartened and discouraged. He filled them 
with enthusiasm and a spirt of local self-pride 
and helpfulness. His advent into office marked 
the beginning of a new era in the city's growth 
and improvement. The movement for its better- 
ment he inaugurated under circumstances the 
most trying and discouraging, and we feel today 
the influence of his work. 

In everything that he did he showed the same 
characteristic, energy and high purpose. Obsta- 
cles seemed only to arouse his energies, and yet 
his was a tender and sympathetic heart. He was 
generous, charitable and loyal to his friends. 
Quick to respond to the cry of the needy and 
eager to relieve the unfortunate. It was a strange 
coincidence, and yet a fitting one, if he must needs 
die, that death should come to him at the hos- 
pital in which he had been so long interested, 
and whose very existence depended upon his ef- 
forts in its behalf. His charities — no one will 
ever know. The eyes of many will glisten today 
with the tear of sorrow and regret as they learn 
of his death and recall his manv kindnesses. 



YARDLEY, Samuel Swan, 

Enterprising Citizen. 

Among the many families of promin- 
ence whose names are inseparably con- 



nected and associated with the State of 
New Jersey from its early history to the 
present time, is the Yardley family, a fami- 
ly conspicuous for its men of sterling pro- 
bity and integrity, eminent in business and 
social circles, active and public-spirited, 
both in church and state affairs, and whose 
women have also brought the name into 
deserved notice. The family is a large 
one, and many branches are found in the 
various States of the Union, particularly 
in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, where 
they have made the name conspicuous by 
their achievements in the varied callings 
chosen by them for their active careers, 
and their records cast no shadow on the 
untarnished name. 

Samuel Swan Yardley, son of Charles 
Burleigh and Margaret Tufts (Swan) 
Yardley, was born in South Orange, New 
Jersey, December 5, 1873, and died in his 
native city, March 11, 1914, His mother, 
an energetic, earnest and progressive wo- 
man, has been an active factor in many of 
the movements for the enlargement of use- 
fulness of the women of New Jersey, and 
under the auspices of the board of man- 
agers of the Columbian Exposition, of 
which she was a member, she made a col- 
lection of the books and writings of the 
women of New Jersey, amounting to over 
four hundred published volumes, besides 
considerable additional unpublished mat- 
ter. She also compiled in two volumes a 
choice selection from two hundred and 
seventv authors who contributed news- 
paper and magazine articles from time to 
time, not previously published in book 
form. These, together with all the other 
volumes collected, were placed on exhibi- 
tion in the women's department at the 
World's Fair, and later were placed in 
Trenton, the capital of the State, and in 
recognition of her efforts in behalf of 
the authors of New Jersey, she was award- 
ed by the managing committee of the ex- 
hibition a gold medal. For several de- 
cades she has held membership in the 



155 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Sorosis, the Women's Club, of Orange, 
and the Society of the Daughters of the 
American Revolution, in the latter named 
organization having been honored by elec- 
tion to the office of regent of the national 
organization. In 1894 she organized the 
New Jersey State Federation of Women's 
Clubs, consisting of fifty-two women's lit- 
erary and other clubs, of which she was 
the president, and an exhibit of this work 
was sent to the Atlanta Exposition. 

Samuel Swan Yardley acquired his pre- 
liminary education in Miss McKinnon's 
school, the Dearborn Morgan school and 
Mr. Bahler's school, in Orange, and then 
pursued advanced studies at Andover Phil- 
lips Academy, which he attended four 
years and from which he was graduated, 
and at Yale College, being forced to re- 
linquish his studies there after a few 
months, owing to impaired health, and 
subsequently he pursued a special course 
at Stevens Institute of Technology at Ho- 
boken. New Jersey. Being thus thorough- 
ly well equipped, he entered upon his ac- 
tive career, engaging as chemist with a 
well known firm of Newark, New Jersey, 
W. Reuziehausen & Company, refiners of 
gold and silver, with whom he remained 
until his untimely death, in the prime of 
life, his future bright with promise. He 
WH? painstaking and conscientious in the 
performance of his duties, characteristics 
which are essential in every line of work, 
and he was held in high esteem by his 
employers, who valued his services high- 
ly. He was a member of the New Jersey 
Naval Reserve; Hope Lodge, No. 124, 
Free and Accepted Masons : and the Paint 
and Powder Club. He was also a con- 
sistent member of Christ Church, East 
Giange, in which he took a keen interest 
and an active part in the work of the var- 
ious societies connected therewith. As 
every true American citizen should do, 
he kept well informed on the issues of the 
dav, and gave a loval support to the prin- 

156 



ciples in which he believed, and wherever 
he was known he was held in the highest 
regard by reason of his sterling worth 
end fidelity to principle. 

Mr. Yardley married, April 18, 1900, in 
Grace Church, Newark, Maria Dorothy, 
daughter of Frederick William and Emma 
(Beiderhass) Reuziehausen, of Newark. 
One child, Frederick William, born Sep- 
tember 7, 1902. 



ORCUTT. Calvin Barber, 

Financier, Active in Charitable Work. 

A central figure in the business life of 
Elizabeth, New Jersey, for many years, 
Calvin Barber Orcutt owed the success 
which crowned his efforts to his discre- 
tion, his foresight and superior business 
ability. His example was probablv of 
more benefit to mankind than that of he- 
roes, statesmen and writers. In addition 
to his extensive business interests, his en- 
ergies were largely devoted to the further- 
ance of many enterprises which had for 
their object the uplifting of man and the 
promulgation of higher standards among 
humanity. Honorable in business, loyal 
in citizenship, charitable in thought, kindly 
in action, true to every trust confided to 
his care, his life was the highest type of 
Christian manhood. His parents, Phineas 
C. and Sophronia (Barber) Orcutt, were 
of old families of Vermont and Connecti- 
cut, and inherited the sterling qualities of 
a long line of English ancestors. 

Calvin Barber Orcutt was born '.n 
Wyoming, New York, September 5, 1847, 
and died in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Janu- 
ary 30, 191 1. His elementary education 
was acquired in the common school at 
Wyoming, and he then worked his way 
through the academy at Wyoming, known 
as Millbury College. The curriculum at 
this institution was but a limited one, and, 
after his arrival in the city of New York, 
Mr. Orcutt studied percentage and brok- 



I 




^-^^^ 0\r^:^z^^^^zy 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



erage by himself, and thus fitted himself 
for a higher position in the financial world. 
For a time he was in the employ of a 
drug house in New York City, but soon 
formed a connection with Fisk & Hatch, 
bankers, who dealt largely in government 
securities. His faithful discharge of the 
duties entrusted to him soon earned him 
promotion. While this firm was financing 
the Chesapeake & Ohio railway, the at- 
tention of the late Collis P. Huntington 
was attracted to Mr. Orcutt, and he select- 
ed him to have charge of the marketing 
of the coal produced along the route which 
came to tidewater at Newport News, Vir- 
ginia. Subsequently, when the legislature 
compelled the separation of the coal busi- 
ness from the railroad company, the Ches- 
apeake & Ohio Coal Agency Company 
was organized, with Mr. Orcutt as its 
president. He was also one of the organ- 
izers of the Newport News Ship Building 
and Dry Dock Company: was president 
of the Newport News Light and Water 
Company ; and a director in the First Na- 
tional Bank of Newport News, and the 
Seaboard Transportation Company. 

He was one of the founders of the Yoimg 
Men's Christian Association in Elizabeth, 
and donated a fine gymnasium and locker 
room in memory of his son. In addition 
to this he paid the remaining debt of $7,000 
still resting on the new building in Jersey 
street. He served as president of the board 
of trustees, and was president of the As- 
sociation in 1909. He assisted in founding 
the Elizabeth Rescue Mission in 1894, and 
until his death gave liberally of both his 
time and money towards its maintenance. 
Another institution in which his co-opera- 
tion and support were of inestimable bene- 
fit was the Elizabeth General Hospital, of 
which he was a director for more than fif- 
teen years, and he was an active worker in 
the interests of the Home for Aged Women 
and the Orphan Asylum. He was a devout 
member of the Second Presbyterian Church, 



having united with this church by letter Oc- 
tober 2, 1868, was an elder, and superinten- 
dent of the Sunday school from June 16, 
1875. He was ordained and installed a 
ruling elder, October 30, 1887. He was 
chairman of the finance committee of the 
Presbyterian Board of Home Missions. He 
was a member of the Chamber of Com- 
merce of New York City; New England 
Society and the Congregational Society in 
the City of New York; Society of Naval 
Architects and Marine Engineers of New 
York ; Lawyers" Club ; Automobile Club of 
America ; Thousand Islands and Chippewa 
Bay Yacht clubs, and numerous others. 

Mr. Orcutt married, in North Granville, 
New York, September 18, 1872, Harriet 
M., a daughter of Addison and Sarah Me- 
linda (Wyeman) Willett, and had children: 
Mary Willett; Russell Barber, born Octo- 
ber 12, 1883, died October i, 1901 ; Helen 
Marguerite. 

It is difficult to sum up in few words a 
character of such dignity, sweetness and 
beneficence as that of Mr. Orcutt. It can 
perhaps best be accomplished by repeating 
the tribute paid to his memory at his funeral 
by his pastor and friend, the Rev. E. B. 
Cobb, D. D., who said : 

"I can think of no more appropriate words in 
which to give expression to what I am sure you 
all think, than the words of King David with ref- 
erence to Abner, 'Know ye not that a prince and 
a great man is fallen this day in Israel?' For Mr. 
Orcutt was truly a prince and a great man. First 
of all he had a 'Princely Mind.' God had richly 
endowed him with that which for want of a bet- 
ter name, we call brains. And this intellect with 
which he had been endowed, had been cultivated 
in one of the best of all schools, the school of ex- 
perience. More quickly than most, he was able 
to grasp the meaning of great problems, and to 
work these problems out through all their intri- 
cate details. And what he was able thus to grasp 
and work out, he was able also to put down upon 
paper and to express in speech, and his intellect 
thus disciplined, he further developed by contin- 
ually measuring up to still larger problems, and 
by constant and judicious reading. He had a 
princely mind, and he had also a 'Princely Heart.' 



157 



;yclopedia of new jersey 



Indeed, if I should be called upon to state what in 
my judgment was his most prominent character- 
istic, I should at once name his big, warm, gen- 
erous, tender and loving heart, a heart which al- 
ways beat in sympathy with others, especially 
with those who were in need, and which was con- 
tinually impelling his mind to think of ways in 
which to relieve this need, and his hands and his 
feet and his purse to execute these ways. He 
was a truly liberal man, not ready merely to give 
when asked, but devoting much time and strength 
also in devising new ways in which to give. In 
the highest, richest, sweetest meaning of these 
words, 'He was an ideal friend — he did a Prince- 
ly Work.' If you should go to Newport News, 
Virginia, where the strength of his business activ- 
ity was expended, you would see there buildings, 
organizations and institutions, which would at 
once arrest your attention because of their size 
and importance, which confessedly are the mon- 
uments of his broad vision and indefatigable toil. 
Or if, returning to this city, you should look into 
the church in which he was a ruling elder, and 
into the Sunday School of which for thirty-five 
years he was the efficient superintendent, you 
would see building, equipment, organization and 
membership — another monument of his consecrat- 
ed life. Or if you should cross the street to the 
Young Men's Christian Association Building, you 
would find a gymnasium, with all modern equip- 
ment, fitted up by Mr. Orcutt in memory of a 
young son of eighteen who preceded him into 
glory a few years ago. Should you visit the Res- 
cue Mission, or go to the Elizabeth General Hos- 
pital, where he was one of its active managers for 
many years, or any other charitable and philan- 
thropic institutions of this city, you would find 
them in all, to a greater or less degree, other 
monuments of his generous thought. Or if you 
should be permitted to look into the hearts of 
many in this and other communities who have re- 
cently suffered financial loss, or passed through 
the deep waters of affliction, or in other ways 
have been in distress, you would find enshrined 
in them all the name of this good man who in 
quiet yet numerous ways had ministered to them 
in their time of need. He has left a 'Princely 
Name.' A good name which is more to be de- 
sired than riches — the name of a man who feared 
God and kept His commandments — who loved his 
fellow men and prayed unto God always — a name 
which will grow brighter and brighter as removed 
a little farther from him in time, we are the bet- 
ter able to appreciate how great he really was." 

These words describe the personal char- 
acter of Mr. Orcutt most perfectly. 

158 



BABBITT, Robert Oscar, 

Lawyer, Man of Admirable Traits. 

Robert Oscar Babbitt, of Jersey City, 
whose long and active career at the bar 
brought him into prominence throughout 
the State of New Jersey, was born in Mend- 
ham, Morris county, on the 5th of Novem- 
ber, 1848, his parents being Robert Millen 
Babbitt and Henrietta Jolley. On his fath- 
er's side he was of English descent, and on 
his mother's of French extraction. 

He obtained his preparatory education 
in the district schools and in the academy 
of William Rankin at Mendham, and pre- 
pared for Princeton, but did not enter the 
university. He studied law for two years 
with Frederick G. Bumham, of Morris- 
town, and, removing to Jersey City in 1871, 
entered the office of Potts & Linn. He was 
admitted to the New Jersey bar as an at- 
torney in February, 1873, and as a counsel- 
lor in November, 1878. After his admis- 
sion to practice, Mr. Babbitt became a mem- 
ber of the firm of Potts & Linn, with whom 
he had pursued his studies, and continued 
this association, under the firm name of 
Potts, Linn & Babbitt, for one year, after 
which the firm was reorganized as Linn & 
Babbitt, and so continued for seven years. 
In 1882 he formed a partnership with Rob- 
ert Linn Lawrence, which remained in ex- 
istence until September, 1900, when it was 
dissolved, Mr. Babbitt retiring in order to 
devote his whole time and attention to his 
large legal Spanish-American business, 
which had been for many years his special- 
ty. In the successful conduct of important 
affairs in this field of practice, he achieved 
a wide as well as a high reputation. 

Mr. Babbitt died at Laredo, Texas, De- 
cember 31, 1903, on the journey from the 
city of Mexico to his home in New Jer- 
sey, his death following an attack of pneu- 
monia. He is survived by his wife, Mary 
Elizabeth (McCrea) Babbitt, of an old 
Orange county. New York, family, whom 
he married in 1875, ^"d by three children — 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Robert Millen, Helen and Mary. Mr. Bab- 
bitt was a member of the Lawyers' Club of 
New York, and of the Carteret and Union 
League clubs of Jersey City. He was in- 
dependent in politics, and never accepted 
public office. 

No record of Mr. Babbitt's life would be 
complete without an appreciation of his 
character, and no better insight into this 
can be found than in the following quota- 
tions, the first from the pen of a friend and 
associate in the City of Mexico, the second 
from that of a lifelong friend in New Jer- 
sey: 

"Personally, he was a splendid specimen of an 
American gentleman of the old school, courteous, 
considerate, kindly, always brimming over with 
the liveliest humor, and above all a conservative, 
clear-headed business man." 

"His was a very rich nature — rich in senti- 
ment, in the feeling for the noble in art and litera- 
ture and life, with a delight in the beautiful, wheth- 
er in the character or in the works and words of 
men. He had the passion of the artist for a fine 
painting. He took exquisite enjoyment in the 
writings not only of poets, but of essayists, think- 
ers and philosophers. He surrounded himself 
and enriched his home with many beautiful 
works of art, and the priceless treasures of the 
world's literature. Through his busy and la- 
borious life he kept continuously drawing at these 
fountains of noble sentiment and culture, and 
thus made himself a most companionable and 
stimulating man, charming with delightful talk, 
full of quickening thoughts and memories of 
those who have done and written great things in 
the world. 

"But his sentiment was not exhausted upon 
beautiful things. He was rich in feeling for liv- 
ing men, and sympathy for all human interests. 
Full of admiration for whatever is fine and 
worthy and unselfish in human character and ac- 
tion : quick and ardent in sympathy and generosity 
for noble causes that help the world and aim at 
human good : compassionate and open-handed 
toward whatever was pitiable or whomever was 
in need. His heart was big and loving and 
kind. In somewhat strange union with this 
warmth and depth of sentiment in him, was a 
masterful force of nature. He did things. He had 
an unbreakable pertinacity of purpose. He had 
an exhaustless fund of energy. He loved to ac- 
complish things and he did accomplish them. 
During the last few years of his life he did a 



work which will put thousands of men directly or 
indirectly in his debt for generations to come. He 
was a builder-up, a man of large, useful, con- 
structive affairs, who had in his power and gift 
to leave a conspicuous world mark as the result 
of his life." 



MacILVAINE, Edward Shippen, 

Civil War Veteran, Financier. 

Edward Shippen Macllvaine, late of 
Trenton, New Jersey, who was well known 
in the world of finance, was a scion of an 
old and distinguished family, whose history 
is a most interesting one. 

In the early part of the sixteenth century 
the Makilvanes were large landed propri- 
etors, powerful and influential. The es- 
tates of Upper and Nether Grimet extend- 
ed for many miles along the Doon. The 
houses of Grimet were quite extensive, but 
are now in ruins. The site, marked by 
foundations and piles of cut stones, is own- 
ed by the Marquis of Ailsa, Earl of Cassil- 
lis. The ancient castle of Thomaston, 
beautifully situated within sight of the 
Firth of Clyde, opposite Ailsa Crag, was 
acquired by the Makilvane family by mar- 
riage. It was built by a nephew of King 
Robert the Bruce, about 1335, who died 
soon after its completion, when it was 
possessed by the Corries of Kelwood. 
Robert Corrie, and Euphan. his spouse, 
daughter of Thomas Tortherwald, who 
was slain at the battle of Durham, had a 
charter from King David II. for the lands 
of Cowlyn and Buchan in the county of 
Dumfries. One of their descendants mar- 
ried a Macllvaine, and brought with her 
this magnificent castle in which the family 
lived for several generations. It was pure 
Norman in style, built of cut sandstone, 
surrounded by a moat, with drawbridge 
and portcullis, and was of remarkable 
strength, as proved by the many long-con- 
tested fights waged against its walls. In 
the old statistical account. Thomaston is de- 
scribed as one of the great places of the 
country side, "It has been exceedingly 



159 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



strong and of very considerable extent." 
In the description of Carrick, in Ayrshire, 
by Sir James Balfour, Lyon King at Arms, 
is a list of "the most ancient gentrey, now 
possessors thereoffe, as — Mackilvanes of 
the House of Grimmat, Shaws of the 
House of Keires, and Cathcarts, descendit 
of the Housse of Carltone, Fergusons, of 
the House of Ivilkerrane, Corries, of the 
Housse of Kelwood, Mures, of the Housse 
of Muchemarrane, Mac Alexander, of the 
Housse of Corstyre." Pitcairn frequently 
mentions the "Makilvenes" as Lords of 
"Grymet." They were allied by marriage 
to several powerful families, among these 
being the Kennedys. Through maternal 
lines they have descent from the Bruce, 
the royal Stewarts, the Maxwells and the 
Montgomeries. 

(I) Alan Makilvane was confirmed in 
the possession of the lands of Grimet and 
Attiquin by a charter from King James the 
Fifth, October lo, 1529. He married, 

about 1520, in Ayrshire, Kennedy, a 

niece of the Earl of Cassilas. The Makil- 
vanes had evidently come from the High- 
lands to Ayr but a short time previously, 
as the only reference made to them in that 
locality was by Pitcairn, who mentions the 
young laird of Attiquin in 1512. The orig- 
inal name was Mac Beth, "son of the liv- 
ing one," and they were a sept of the pow- 
erful clan Chattin. The name was chang- 
ed in various ways, that of the head of the 
family now in Scotland being Mac Bean. 
The coat-of-arms now registered in the of- 
fice of the Lyon King of Arms at Edin- 
burgh, about 1673, but borne much earlier, 
is : Gules, two covered cups or, in chief, a 
star argent. The emblem of the clan was a 
sprig of boxwood, signifying "Live for- 
ever." Alan Makilvane lived in turbulent 
times ; of him this record has been found : 
"July 28, 1528. Alan Makilvne, Laird of 
Grymet, for not entereing his friend Gil- 
bert Kennedy of Kirckmechell for slaugh- 
ter of some of the Campbells iico." There 

i6r 



was a bitter feud and much blood shed 
between the Kennedys and the Campbells, 
and concealing and protecting their accus- 
ed friends was a necessity. 

(II) Gilbert Macilvane, entered as Gil- 
berto Mcllvene filio et haerdi Alan Mcll- 
vene de Grumet, was killed in the battle of 
Fawside. He married Janet Corj' or Cor- 
rie, and had a charter in confirmation of 
his lands from Queen Mary, May 4, 1546. 

The family of Corrie was one of 
distinction in the sixteenth century. 
"Thomas Corrie de Kelwood fined for not 
entering Bargany for the slaughter of the 
young laird of Attiquane 11m 15 12." The 
same Thomas Corrie had a charter for 
Kelwood from King James IV. in 1507. 
The Corries had intermarried with the 
families of Napier, Blair and Chalmers 
before uniting with the Macllvaines. 

(HI) Sir Patrick Macllvaine, of Grim- 
et, son of Gilbert and Janet (Cory or Cor- 
rie) Macllvaine, became vested in his fath- 
er's lands of Nether and Over Grimet and 
.A.ttyquyne, October 25, 1547. He fought 
with the Earl of Cassillis at Lady Gorse, 
in 1601, and was knighted on the field of 
battle for bravery. He married Julianna 
Schaw, of the Schaws of Leir, and died in 
1613. 

(IV) John Macllvaine, son of Sir Pat- 
rick and Julianna (Schaw) Macllvaine, 
had a charter granted him by King James 
VI. in 1597, for his lands. He died before 
his father, being killed at the battle of Lady 
Gorse. It is recorded that at this battle 
John Macllvaine received a fatal thrust by 
falling down the bank up)on his own 
spear. Pitcairn says, however, "The young 
laird of Grimak was struckin throu the chin 
and he and horse boyth struckin to the 
eird." He married Kennedy. 

(V) John Macllvaine, son of John and 
(Kennedy) Macllvaine, was living 



in 1632. He married Anna Corrie, of the 
Corries of Kelwood, who died in the year 
1632, and whose will is in the register's of- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



fice in Edinburgh. She inherited the es- 
tates of her family by the death of her 
brother. 

(VI) John Macllvaine, son of John and 
Anna (Corrie) Macllvaine, died Septem- 
ber 21, 1669. He is believed to have mar- 
ried Cunningham, niece of William, 

Earl of Glencairn. She is mentioned in the 
will of Quentin Macllvaine in connection 
with his nephews, "the young sons of John 
Macllvaine of Grimet." Quentin Macll- 
vaine made disposition of Thomaston in 
his will, but in a codicil stated that it was 
no longer in his possession, having been 
sold for (the payment of fines and debts. 

(VII) John Macllvaine, a son of John 
and (Cunningham) Macllvaine, suc- 
ceeded to Grimet, but with him the proper- 
ty passed from the family as a result of 
their being Convenanters. At this time re- 
ligious persecutions forced the family to 
take refuge for a short time in the North 
of Ireland, making their home by the 
shores of Loughneagh, in Ulster. Their 
names are to be found on record as mem- 
bers of the session of the Old Kirk until 
1692, and their names appear on almost 
all the documents signed by the gentry, and 
known as the "Solemn League and Cove- 
nant." 

(VIII) Joseph Macllvaine, a son of 
(probably) John Macllvaine, was born in 
1700, and died in Ayr, in May, 1762, his 
will being in the register's office in Edin^ 
burgh. He was a man of prominence and 
influence in Ayr, holding positions of im- 
portance. He married (first) June i. 1721, 
Anna Rogerson, daughter of Thomas Rog- 
erson, of Dumfries, descended from a fam- 
ily of County Tyrone, Ireland, which de- 
scended from Rory, son of Ruadbrigh, the 
"red haired king." He married (second) 
Jane, daughter of Adam Hunter, baillie of 
Ayr. Children, all by the first marriage: 
William, of further mention ; David, born 
September 22, 1723, married Elizabeth 
Graydon; John, born April 17, 1725; Eliz- 
abeth, born June 5, 1726, married William 

161 
II— II 



Gairdner; Robert, born May 16, 1728; 
Anna, born January 8, 1731, married, 1762, 
John Fleming. 

(IX) William Macllvaine, a son of 
Joseph and Anna (Rogerson) Macllvaine, 
was born in Ayrshire, Scotland, March 31, 
1722, and died in Bucks county, Pennsyl- 
vania, at his estaite Fairview, near Bristol. 
He and his brother David came to Ameri- 
ca about 1745, and settled in Philadelphia, 
where they were prominent as merchants 
and ship owners. In one storm they lost 
forty vessels. He was a charter member 
of the Philadelphia Assembly in 1749, and 
an elder of the First Presbyterian Church 
from 1760 to 1770. In 1756 he was a mem- 
ber of the "Independent Company of Foot, 
Philadelphia," commanded by Captain John 
Kidd. Some years prior to his death Mr. 
Macllvaine retired from business and led 
the life of a country gentleman at his home 
in Bucks county, Pennsylvania. His will 
is dated there, January 26, 1770, and prov- 
ed, October 4, 1770. He appointed Wil- 
liam Humphrey, of Philadelphia, executor. 
Mr. Macllvaine married (first) Anne Em- 
erson, daughter of Caleb and Mary 
(North) Emerson, of Philadelphia. Mary 
(North) Emerson was a descendant of the 
Right Honorable Dudley North, and of 
Sir Edward North, treasurer and guardian 
for Queen Elizabeth. The Emerson fam- 
ily of Durham is descended from the 
Counts of Habsbruck, tracing back several 
generations before the Norman Conquest. 
Mr. Macllvaine married (second) Mar- 
garet Cross. Children, all by first marriage: 
I. William, of further mention. 2. Jo- 
seph, of "Bristol township, Bucks county, 
gentleman." 3. Mary, married General 
Joseph Bloomfield, Governor of New Jer- 
sey. 1801, 1803-1812. He was born Octo- 
ber 18, 1753, son of Dr. Moses and Eunice 
Bloomfield, served as a surgeon in the Rev- 
olutionary War ; attorney-general of New 
Jersey ; brigadier-general ; member of Con- 
gress, 1817-1821 : died October 3, 1825. 

(X) William Macllvaine, son of Wil- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW fERSEY 



liam and x^nne (Emerson) Macllvaine, 
was born in Philadelphia, July 8, 1750, and 
died at his home in Burlington, New Jer- 
sey, September 16, 1806. In 1766 he went 
to Scotland, where he entered the Lhiiver- 
sity of Edinburgh, and received his degree 
of Doctor of Medicine from this institu- 
tion. He returned to America in 1773, and 
resided in the family homes in Philadel- 
phia and Bristol. He took an active part 
in the Revolution from its very beginning, 
and was captain of the Light Infantry As- 
sociated Company, in Bristol, of which his 
brother was major. July 4, 1776, it was 
ordered by the Committee of Safety at 
Philadelphia "That Captain Davis and 
Captain Macllvaine be empowered and di- 
rected to take up six shallops to transport 
a battalion of troops from this city to Bor- 
dentown, to sail tomorrow." William Mac- 
llvaine was surgeon in Captain Read's reg- 
iment in 1776. He was commissioned a 
justice of the peace for Bucks county, Sep- 
tember 7, 1784, and as a judge of the Court 
of Common Pleas, September 10. 1784. Af- 
ter his second marriage he removed to Phil- 
adelphia, where he practiced his profession 
until 1793. In that year of the yellow fever 
epidemic he sent his family to Burlington, 
New Jersey, for refuge from the scourge. 
He remained in Philadelphia, true to his 
calling, contracted the fever, and was nurs- 
ed back to health by an old black servant. 
He succeeded in keeping the fact of his ill- 
ness from his family, but upon his restor- 
ation to health, he joined them in Burling- 
ton, and was a resident practitioner there 
until his death. While living in Philadel- 
phia he was a regular attendant at the First 
Presbyterian Qiurch, but in Bristol and 
Burlington he attended the Episcopal 
church, and his children were baptized in 
it. 

Dr. Macllvaine married (first) Novem- 
ber 6, 1773, Margaret Rodman, born Sep- 
tember 20, 1752, died February 22, 1881, 
a daughter of Judge William and Mary 
(Reeve) Rodman, of "Flushing," Bucks 

162 



county, Pennsylvania, and a granddaugh- 
ter of John Reeve, of Burlington, New Jer- 
sey. He married (second) Rebecca Cox, 
born February 3, 1760, died September 

13, 1783, daughter of William Cox, Esq. 
He married (third) Mary Shippen, bom 
August 15, 1757. died March 14, 1831, a 
daughter of Edward Shippen, chief justice 
of Pennsylvania, and his wife, Margaret 
(Francis) Shippen. Dr. Macllvaine and 
his second and third wives were buried in 
St. Mary's churchyard, Burlington. By the 
first marriage there were children: i. 
Mary Anne, born August 10, 1774, died 
May 30, 1814; married, December 7, 181 1, 
General Jonathan Rhea. 2. Rachel, died 
November 16, 1720: married Dr. John 
Ruan. 3. Hannah, died in infancy. 4. 
Elizabeth, died in infancy. Children by 
third marriage : 5. William, bom May 2, 
1786, died August 9, 1854. 6. Edward 
Shippen, of further mention. 7. Marga- 
ret, born November 25, 1788, died January 

14, 1864. 8. Joseph B., born January 15, 
1790, died July- 14, 1847; married Mary 
Anne Murray. 9. Mary, died unmarried, 
December 7, 1869. 

Edward Shippen, great-great-grandfath- 
er of Mary (Shippen) Macllvaine, was 
born in Yorkshire, England, in 1639. He 
was president of the Provincial Council of 
Pennsylvania. He married Elizabeth Ly- 
brand. 

Joseph, son of Edwarrl Shippen. of Phil- 
adelphia, was born in Boston, February 
28, 1678-9. "He was among the men of 
science of his day. and in 1727, he joined 
Dr. Franklin in founding the Junto, 'for 
mutual information and public good.' " He 
died in Germantown, Philadelphia, in June, 
1741. He married (first) July 28, 1702, 
Abigail Grosse. and (second) Rose Budd, 
widow of John McWilliams and of Charles 
Plumley. 

Judge Edward Shippen, "of Lancaster," 
son of Joseph and Abigail (Grosse) Ship- 
oen. was born in Boston, July 9. 1703. He 
was brought up as a merchant by James 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Logan, and was associated in business with 
him in 1732, under the style of Logan & 
Shippen. In 1749 he was associated with 
Thomas Lawrence, in the fur trade, the 
firm doing business under the name of 
Shippen & Lawrence. For many years he 
served in the City Council, was mayor of 
Philadelphia in 1744, and judge of the 
Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas in 
1749 and 1750. He removed to Lancaster 
in May, 1752, was there appointed pro- 
thonotary, and filled this office until 1778. 
He had large transactions as paymaster for 
supplies for the British and Provincial for- 
ces, when commanded by General Forves, 
General Stanwix and Colonel Bouquet, 
and managed them with so much integrity 
as to receive public thanks in 1760. He 
served as county judge under the Provini- 
cial and State governments. In early life 
he laid out Shippensburg. In 1748-49 he 
was one of the founders of the College of 
New Jersey, and was a member of the first 
board of trustees, holding this position un- 
til his resignation in 1767. He was a fine 
French scholar, and was one of the sub- 
scribers to the Philadelphia Academy, later 
the University of Pennsylvania. His death 
occurred in Lancaster, September 25, 1781. 
Judge Shippen married (first) September 
20, 1725, Sarah Plumley, born November 
8, 1706, died April 28, 1735, a daughter of 
Charles and Rose (Budd) Plumley. He 
married (second) in August, 1747, Mary, 
widow of John Nowland. 

Chief Justice Edward Shippen, son of 
Judge Edward and Sarah (Plumley) Ship- 
pen, was born in Philadelphia, February 
16, 1728-9, and died in that city, April 16, 
1806. He was admitted to the Middle 
Temple, London, in 1749. and was admit- 
ted to practice as a barrister in 1750. No- 
vember 22, 1752, he was appointed judge 
of the Admiralty Court in Philadelphia ; in 
1765 he was appointed prothonotary of the 
Supreme Court; December 12, 1770, ap- 
pointed a member of the Governor's Coun- 
cil ; May I, 1784, appointed judge of the 

163 



Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia; 
September 16, 1784, judge of the High 
Court of Errors and Appeals; in 1785, 
elected a justice of the Dock Ward ; Octo- 
ber 4, 1785, appointed president of the 
Court of Quarter Sessions and General 
Jail Delivery; January 29, 1791, appointed 
an associate judge of the Supreme Court, 
an office he filled until 1799, when he was 
appointed Chief Justice, and held this of- 
fice until his death, April 16, 1806. Judge 
Shippen married, in Christ Church, Phila- 
delphia, November 29, 1753, Margaret, 
born in Talbot county, Maryland, August 
17. 1735. died in Philadelphia, May 28, 
1794, a daughter of Tench Francis, attor- 
ney-general of Pennsylvania, and Eliza- 
beth (Turbett) Francis. 

(XI) Edward Shippen Macllvaine, son 
of Dr. William and Mary (Shippen) Mac- 
llvaine, was born in Philadelphia, October 
I, 1787, and died September 13, 1843. I" 
young manhood he became a resident of 
Hunterdon county, New Jersey, and was 
a representative for the county in the Gen- 
eral Assembly from 1830 to 1835. For 
some years prior to his death he was de- 
barred from taking an active part in pub- 
lic life by gout, from which he was a great 
sufferer. He was commissioned first lieu- 
tenant of the First Battalion of Cavalry, 
First Regiment of Hunterdon county. New 
Jersey, militia. May 13, 1815. In 1824, 
while an aide-de-camp to his uncle, Gover- 
nor Bloomfield, he escorted General La 
Fayette from Princeton to Trenton, dur- 
ing the latter's visit to America. Mr. Mac- 
llvaine married, October 21, 181 2, Esther 
Rodman, born June 29, 1791, died Octo- 
ber 17, i860, a daughter of William and 
Esther (West) Rodman. She was widely 
known for her beauty and brilliant mind, 
was with her brother-in-law, J. Qancy 
Jones, while he was envoy extraordinary 
and minister plenipotentiary to Austria, 
and was present at the coronation of Fran- 
cis Joseph. Her letters of that time, and 
her poems, have great literary merit. Mr. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



and Mrs. Macllvaine had one child : Wil- 
liam Rodman, of further mention. 

William Rodman, father of Esther 
(Rodman) Macllvaine, was born at 
"Flushing," Bensalem township, Bucks 
county, Pennsylvania, in October, 1757, 
and died there, July 27, 1824. He was a 
son of William and Mary (Reeve) Rod- 
man, and a grandson of Dr. John and 
Mary (Willett) Rodman, of Burlington, 
New Jersey. May 23, 1778, William Rod- 
man took the affirmation of allegiance and 
fidelity to the State of Pennsylvania, di- 
rected by the Act of 1777, and for this he 
was "disowned" by the Society of Friends. 
October 4, 1781, he was appointed brigade 
quartermaster of the militia, under Briga- 
dier-General Lacey, stationed at New- 
town, Pennsylvania, and served until the 
militia was disbanded shortly prior to the 
close of the Revolutionary War. He was 
a justice of the peace for Bucks county 
from 1791 to 1800, when he resigned his 
commission to take his seat in the Senate 
of Pennsylvania. There his career was a 
prominent one, as chairman of a number of 
important committees, and twice he receiv- 
ed a large vote for the speakership. After 
four years' service in the Senate he de- 
clined re-election. He was elected to Con- 
gress in 18 ID, taking his seat at the extra 
session, November 4, 181 1, and his service 
ended with the Twelfth Congress, March 
3, 1813, which was the Congress which de- 
clared war against Great Britain. In 1799 
he served as captain of dragoons in the 
service of the United States for the sup- 
pression of the "Fries" insurrection in 
Northampton county, Pennsylvania; was 
a presidential elector in 1809, and cast his 
vote for James Madison. 

(XII) William Rodman Macllvaine, 
son of Edward Shippen and Esther (Rod- 
man) Macllvaine, was bom in Ewing 
township, Hunterdon (now Meroer) coun- 
ty. New Jersey, December 10. 1820. He 
ived on the homestead during the early 
part of his life, and later in Trenton, New 



Jersey. He was elected judge of the Court 
of Common Pleas of Mercer county by a 
joint meeting of the Legislature in 1853 ; 
re-elected in 1858 and in 1863, serving fif- 
teen years. He was a senior warden of 
St. Michael's Episcopal Church, in Tren- 
ton. His career was one of great useful- 
ness, and he was always known as a pure- 
minded, honest and upright citizen. He 
married, May 11, 1842, Christina Reeder 
Scudder, born October 26, 1823, died at 
Trenton, February 18, 1894. Children : 

1. Edward Shippen, of further mention. 

2. Jasper Scudder, born May 20, 1844, was 
graduated with first honors at Princeton. 
He became a Presbyterian minister, and 
died while a missionary in China, Febru- 
ary 2, 1881. 3. Maria, born February 12, 
1849, died unmarried, October 12, 1868. 
4. Francis Rodman, born July 12, 1855, 
died August 7, 1856. 

Jasper Smith Scudder, father of Chris- 
tina Reeder (Scudder) Macllvaine, was 
born in 1797, died October 20, 1877. His 
ancestors came to New Jersey from Long 
Island in 1709. He was paying teller of 
the Trenton Bank for about thirty years ; 
treasurer of the State Hospital from the 
time it was built until shortly before his 
death ; and was the first president of the 
Mechanics' Bank of Trenton. 

(XIII) Edward Shippen Macllvaine, 
son of William Rodman and Christina 
Reeder (Scudder) Macllvaine, was born 
in Ewing township, Mercer county. New 
Jersey, March 28, 1843, and died in Tren- 
ton, New Jersey, January 8. 1910. He was 
graduated from the Lawrenceville School 
in 1858, and entered Princeton College as 
a sophmore and a member of the class of 
1 86 1. Ill health obliged him to interrupt 
his studies, and he was traveling abroad 
when the news of the outbreak of the Civil 
War reached him. He at once returned to 
this country and accepted a position under 
Captain James F. Armstrong, commanding 
the United States sloop-of-war "Jacinto," 
and later served on the "De Soto." He 



164 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



was one of the first volunteers in Company 
A, Mercer Brigade, National Guard, during 
the Civil War. He vk^as the owner of a 
fine plantation in North Carolina, and at 
the close of the war spent five years on it. 
Returning to the Macllvaine homestead in 
1870, he lived there until 1883, then re- 
moved to Trenton, where the remainder of 
his life was spent. From 1887 to 1910 he 
was treasurer of the Lawrenceville School ; 
was treasurer of the Alumni Association 
for many years ; treasurer of the Ameri- 
can Bible Society and the Session of the 
First Presbyterian Church of Trenton, 
1886 to 1908 : and was a director of the 
Treniton Banking Company from 1900 to 
1910, having been a charter stockholder of 
this corporation. Following is a copy from 
the records of this institution : "The di- 
rectors of the Trenton Banking Company 
desire to place on record the high appreci- 
ation of the character and faithful services 
of Mr. Edward Shippen Macllvaine whose 
recent death has brought sincere grief to 
[_ all who were in any way associated with 
him. Mr. Macllvaine was connected with 
the Trenton Banking Company for ten 
years, having been elected a director in 
1900, and served the bank with unremit- 
ting zeal and the utmost integrity from that 
time until the day of his death. His lov- 
able nature and fine character endeared 
him to all with whom he came in contact." 
Mr. Macllvaine married, March 28, 
1866, Anne Belleville Hunt, daughter of 
Captain William Edgar Hunt. United 
States Navy. Children: i. Margaret Ship- 
pen, married, June 12, 1889, John A. Roeb- 
ling, civil engineer, son of Washington A. 

IRoebling and Emily (Warren) Roebling. 
Washington A. Roebling was the builder 
of the Brooklyn Bridge. Children : Sieg- 
fried, Paul and Donald. 2. Anne, unmar- 
ried, lives in Trenton. 3. Maria, married 
Henry Van Kleeck Gillmore, son of Gen- 
eral Quincy and Margaret Hardenburgh 
CVan Kleeck) Gillmore. 4. Francis Ship- 

165 



pen, civil engineer, was graduated from 
Princeton University in the class of 1904. 

Commander William Edgar Hunt, 
United States Navy, father of Mrs. Anne 
Belleville (Hunt) Macllvaine, was bom 
at Lamberton, New Jersey, July 18, 1806, 
a son of Peter and Maria (Furman) Hunt, 
and a nephew of William Edgar, of New 
York. He was an orphan at the age of 
ten years, and a relative. Admiral Leroy, 
was appointed his guardian. Six years 
later Admiral Leroy secured his appoint- 
ment as a midshipman from New Jersey in 
the LTnited States Navy. In 183 1 he was 
appointed acting master of the "John 
Adams." June 21, 1832, he was commis- 
sioned lieutenant, and in 1841, was appoint- 
ed to special duty with Captain (later Com- 
modore) Stockton, and was with him when 
the gun exploded on the "Princeton," 
when many lives were lost. Although 
Lieutenant Hunt was standing near Cap- 
tain Stockton when the latter fired the gun, 
he received no serious hurt. During the 
Mexican War he was actively engaged in 
the transportation of troops and ammuni- 
tion to the coast of Mexico. In August. 
1855, he was commissioned commander, 
and in 1859 was appointed to command the 
"Levant" in the Pacific Ocean. In Septem- 
ber. i860, he was heard from, when the 
"Levant" was at Honolulu, but as nothing 
was heard of the vessel or of those on her 
after that time, it is supposed that a severe 
typhoon which occurred in that section 
about that time, caused the destruction of 
the ship and all on her. 

Commander Hunt married (first) in 
Trenton. May 29, 1833, Susan Elizabeth 
Clarke, born June 21. 1810. died April 16, 
1848, a daughter of Dr. James and Mary 
(Belleville) Clarke. He married (second) 
May 30. 1849, Annie Belleville Qarke, a 
sister of his first wife. Children, all by the 
first marriage : Moore Furman ; Annie, 
died young; Sue. died young; James 
Clarke ; Virginia Higbee ; William, died 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



young; Aubselue; Anne Belleville, mar- 
ried Edward Shippen Macllvaine, as 
above stated. 

Dr. James Clarke was born about 1787, 
died February 20, 1847. He was a distin- 
guished physician, his large practice lying 
on both sides of the Delaware river. The 
first American ancestor of his family was 
a founder of Princeton University, and a 
large landowner near there. He was de- 
scended from the families of Middleton, 
Johns. Fitzrandolph and Blossom. 



RANSOM, Charles Archibald. 

Laivyer, Prominent Jonrnalist. 

Journalism has ever called into the circle 
of her followers the brightest minds and 
the most gifted sons of the nation. The 
naturally keen intellect is sharpened by its 
contact with others as brilliant and gains 
thereby an added strength and power. The 
most careful analysis, closest reasoning and 
logical thought processes are brought into 
play, and the journalist of ability, by reason 
of his strong intellectuality, rises above the 
ranks of the many to become a leader in 
thought and action, his influence extending 
throughout the world. The late Charles 
Archibald Ransom, of East Orange, New 
Jersey, was a man of this stamp. Called 
away in the very prime of life, he has left 
a record as a man of marked ability in 
everything he undertook, and of sweetness 
and force of character. 

(I) Amasa Ransom, his grandfather, 
was a farmer in Colchester, Connecticut, 
in which place he resided many years. 

(II) Stephen Billings, son of Amasa 
Ransom, and the father of Charles Archi- 
bald Ransom, was born in Colchester, Con- 
necticut, October 12. 1814, and died De- 
cember 10, 1893. His early life was the 
usual one of a farmer's son. He prepared 
himself to teach, and from seventeen until 
the age of twenty-one he taught during the 
winter months, and spent the summers 

166 



helping his father. While teaching, he 
studied the classics and the sciences. He 
went to Virginia in the fall of 1835, with 
the idea of engaging in teaching there, but 
being unsuccessful in this endeavor, he em- 
ployed most of the winter in traveling 
about Virginia and Maryland, meanwhile 
spending two months in the city of Wash- 
ington, where he heard many debates in 
Congress. In the autumn of 1836 he enter- 
ed upon an engagement as teacher in the 
old academy at Mendham, Morris county. 
New Jersey, leaving there at the end of 
two years to engage in a similar occupation 
at Belvidere, Warren county, in the same 
State. The profession of law always had 
a peculiar fascination for Mr. Ransom, 
and he took up the study of law while in 
Belvidere, under the preceptorship of the 
Hon. Phineas B. Kenney, at the time coun- 
ty clerk. His next place of residence was 
Hope, Warren county, New Jersey, where 
he taught the village school for the period 
of one year. His last experience as a teacher 
covered a period of six months, in 1841, 
which he spent in teaching in New Ger- 
mantown, Hunterdon county, New Jersey. 
He then registered as a law student in the 
office of Colonel William Thompson, of 
Somerville, finishing his legal studies under 
his supervision. He was admitted to the 
bar of New Jersey as an attorney, Septem- 
ber 5, 1844, and as a counsellor, in Octo- 
ber, 1847. He established himself in the 
practice of his profession at New German- 
town, and combined this with land survey- 
ing. The following spring he removed to 
Somerville, Somerset county. New Jersey, 
and was actively engaged there until the 
removal of his office to Jersey City, New 
Jersey, in 1854. Two years later he took 
up his residence in the same city. 

From the time he cast his first vote at 
Mendham in 1838, he had been an ardent 
supporter of the Democratic party, and he 
remained an adherent of it until he joined 
the Free Soil party in 1848, and supported 



I 




-t^,47^ 



/Y r 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Martin Van Buren. He was one of the 
most active organizers of the National 
Prohibition party in 1869, never wavered 
in his allegiance to it, and was the nominee 
of that party for Governor of New Jersey 
in 1880. In 1884 he was a delegate to its 
National Convention. From the time Mr. 
Ransom opened his ofifice for professional 
work he was engaged in many important 
cases. He was primarily an advocate. 
Thoroughly patriotic, Mr. Ransom com- 
manded a company of militia in New Ger- 
mantown, 1845-46. 

Mr. Ransom marrietl (first) May 14, 
1845, Maria C, daughter of Jacob Apgar, 
a merchant of Hunterdon county, who 
went to California upon the discovery of 
gold there, and died in that State in 1849. 
He married (second) July, 1856, Eliza 
Woodhull, daughter of Stephen R. Hunt, 
a lawyer of Somerville. 

(Ill) Charles Archibald, son of Stephen 
Billings and Eliza Woodhull (Hunt) Ran- 
som, was born in Jersey City, New Jersey, 
June 22, 1857. Having passed successfully 
through the public schools of his native 
city, in 1872 he became a student at the 
Wesleyan Academy at Wilbraham, Massa- 
chusetts. He next matriculated at Wesley- 
an University in Middletown, Connecticut, 
entering in September. 1875. I" the of- 
fice of his talented father, Mr. Ransom 
read law under his preceptorship and was 
admitted as an attorney to the bar of New 
Jersey in January 1881. Shortly after this 
event he became a member of the staff of 
the "New York Tribune," and when the 
"New York Press" was organized by the 
late Postmaster Frank Hatton and Robert 
Porter, he became associated with them in 
tbe same capacity and remained with them 
until 1889. He was one of the leading 
spirits in the organization of the "Jersey 
City News." He was a legislative corre- 
spondent at Trenton for more than twenty 
years, and for the same length of time was 
a member of the Correspondents" Club of 



Trenton. Upon the election of Governor 
(now President) Wilson, Mr. Ransom was 
reappointed. He represented as legislative 
correspondent the "Newark News," the 
"Jersey City News," "Hudson Observer," 
"New York Press," "New York Herald" 
and "New York Evening Post." Mr. Ran- 
som was appointed by Governor Fort, of 
New Jersey, executive clerk to the Gover- 
nor, and also was made clerk of the Court 
of Pardons. When Woodrow Wilson suc- 
ceeded Governor Fort, Mr. Ransom was 
reappointed to both positions. His social 
membership was with the New England 
Society of Orange and the Sons of the 
American Revolution. 

Mr. Ransom was much interested in the 
Naval Reserve, and was actively associated 
with it for many years. He became a sea- 
man in the First Division, Battalion of the 
East, May 20, 1895, equipment yeoman 
September 21, 1896, and chief yeoman of 
battalions, March 23, 1900. At the expira- 
tion of his time of service, he received his 
discharge, afterwards becoming junior 
lieutenant. Naval Reserve, imder the re-or- 
ganization on October 2, 1908. 

Mr. Ransom married, December 17, 
1907, Ann Baldwin, the daughter of Fer- 
dinand and Ann L. (Baldwin) Passano, of 
Baltimore. Maryland. The death of Mr. 
Ransom occurred suddenly at his home in 
East Orange, New Jersey, February 15, 
1913. This sad occurrence was deeply de- 
plored. The State and community had ben- 
efited through his presence. His career 
had been one of marked success, and his 
public spirit and his efforts in behalf of the 
upbuilding of many worthy enterprises 
were widely recognized. The energy which 
he threw into all he undertook, stimulated 
others to like eiiforts. His reputation for 
culture was well deserved, and he sustain- 
ed intimate relations with the leading men 
of his time. Mr. Ransom is buried in 
Rosedale Cemetery, Orange. 



167 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



LANNING, Hon. William Mershon, 

Iiaxryer, Jurist, Financier, Anthor. 

Men of marked ability, forceful ciiarac- 
ter and culture, leave their impress upon 
the world, written in such indelible char- 
acters, that time is powerless to obliterate 
their memory or sweep it away from the 
minds of men. To this class belonged the 
Hon. William Mershon Lanning, of the 
State of New Jersey. He had inherited in 
rich measure the sterling virtues character- 
istic of many generations of the Lanning 
family, and greatly added to the family 
prestige. 

Robert Lanning, the American progeni- 
tor of the family, was supposed to have 
come to this country from Wales, and was 
a resident of Maidenhead (now Lawrence- 
ville), in 1698, and was one of the trustees 
to whom was conveyed the land for the 
Maidenhead (now Lawrenceville) Presby- 
terian church. He married, and had chil- 
dren, of whom one or more were baptized 
at Maidenhead, July 13, 1715, Stephen. 
Richard, John, Daniel, Robert and Frances. 

Stephen Lanning, son of Robert Lan- 
ning, died in 1780. He married Abigail 
Hart, and had children: Ralph, Robert, 
Elijah, Stephen and Sarah. 

Elijah Lanning, son of Stephen and Abi- 
gail (Hart) Lanning, was born in 1753, 
died in 1793, and he and his wife are buried 
in the old Ewing graveyard. He married 
Sarah Mershon, who died December 11, 
1831, and they had children: Mary, 
Eunice, Elijah, Nathaniel, Jemima, Abigail, 
Angeline, Sarah, Julia, Rachel and Han- 
nah. 

Nathaniel Lanning. son of Elijah and 
Sarah (Mershon) Lanning. was born June 
2, 1775, died January 25, 1845. He mar- 
ried. May 25, 1820, Mary Howell, born 
February 8. 1788, died May 25, 1840. Qiil- 
dren : Elijah Webster, Elizabeth, Rebecca, 
Nathaniel, James. John and Sarah. 

Elijah Webster Lanning, son of Nathan- 
iel and Mary (Howell) Lanning. was born 



in Ewing township, Mercer county. New 
Jersey, May 23, 182 1, and died November 
3, 1906. He was a farmer by occupation, 
and an elder in the Presbyterian church for 
more than a half a century. He married 
(first) Cornelia Ann Mershon, (second) 
Sarah Coleman. Children by first mar- 
riage: William Mershon, whose name 
heads this sketch, and Wallace. Children 
by second marriage : Alfred M., Cornelia 
Jane, Herbert, and Harry Webster. 

Hon. William Mershon Lanning was 
born on the farm of his father in Ewing 
township, Mercer county. New Jersey, 
January i, 1849, 3^"^ died February 16, 
19 1 2. In 1866 he was graduated from the 
Lawrenceville Academy, and at once en- 
gaged in the profession of teaching, being 
thus occupied in the schools of Mercer 
county until 1880, the last six years of this 
period being passed as an instructor in the 
old Trenton Academy. He was commis- 
sioned a justice of the peace of Ewing 
township. May i, 1876, and while qualify- 
ing for that office obtained an insight into 
legal matters which proved the starting 
point for his entrance into the profession 
of law. From 1877 to 1880, while still pur- 
suing his career as a teacher, he devoted all 
of his spare time to the study of law, at 
first with George A. Anderson, and subse- 
quently with General Edward L. Camp- 
bell, and was admitted to the bar as an at- 
torney, November 4, 1880; three years 
later he was admitted as a counsellor. April 
19, 1886, he was elected to the office of 
city solicitor of Trenton, was re-elected the 
following year, and served until 1888. Jan- 
uary 31, 1888, he was appointed judge of 
the District Court of the city of Trenton, 
and held this office until he was legislated 
out of office in ,1891. In 1894 he was a 
member of the Constitutional Commission ; 
in November. 1902. was elected to Con- 
gress on the Republican ticket from the 
Fourth District of New Jersey, but resign- 
ed in June, 1904. in order to accept the of-, 
fice of United States District Judge for the 



168 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



District of New Jersey, to which he had 
been appointed by President Roosevelt. 
President Taft, in May, 1909, appointed 
him to the position of United States Cir- 
cuit Judge for the Third Judicial Circuit. 
The degree of Doctor of Laws was con- 
ferred upon him by Washington and Jef- 
ferson College in 1908, and Princeton Uni- 
versity conferred the same degree in 1910. 

Judge Lanning was considered an au- 
thority on State law and, in 1887, he, with 
the late Judge Garret Dorset Wall Vroom, 
by authorization of the New Jersey Leg- 
islature, compiled the "Supplement to the 
Revision of the Statutes of New Jersey," 
and by the same authority, the same gentle- 
men, in 1895, compiled the entire statutory 
law of the State in the edition known as 
"The General Statutes of New Jersey." 
Judge Lanning published a book on town- 
ship law in 1885, known as "Helps for 
Township Officers," which was so widely 
read as to make a second edition necessary. 

In business affairs Judge Lanning was 
no less capable than in legal matters, and 
had he chosen to follow a business career, 
he would undoubtedly have achieved emi- 
nence in that. He was at various times a 
director of the Mechanics' National Bank 
of Trenton, and for some time filled the 
office of its chief executive ; he was a man- 
ager of the Trenton Savings Fund Socie- 
ty, and served as counsel for both of these 
institutions ; trustee of Lawrenceville 
School ; manager of Mercer Hospital ; one 
of the original trustees of the Trenton Free 
Public Library ; trustee of the General As- 
sembly of the Presbyterian Church in the 
United States of America ; a director of 
the Princeton Theological Seminary; and 
member of many committees of the Pres- 
byterian Church, including the Committee 
on Organic Union of the Presbyterian 
Church in the LTnited States of America 
and the Cumberland Presbyterian Church ; 
and a member of the New Jersey Society 
of the Sons of the Revolution. In 1914 the 
Board of Education of the Township of 

169 



Ewing honored his memory by erecting a 
school building close to the site of the house 
in which he had been born, and named it 
the "William M. Lanning School." 

Judge Lanning married, August 3, 1881, 
Jennie Hemenway, of Hermon, St. Law- 
rence county, New York. She was gradu- 
ated from the Oswego Normal School, and 
after teaching for a time in the schools of 
New York State, became a teacher in the 
State Normal School at Trenton. Chil- 
dren : Kenneth Hemenway and Robert 
Salisbury. 

The high esteem in which Judge Lan- 
ning was held is scarcely to be overestimat- 
ed. In all classes of society, his death was 
deeply and sincerely deplored, and public 
opinion will be found capably expressed in 
the following extracts. A memorial pre- 
sented to the New Jersey State Bar Asso- 
ciation reads as follows : 

"In the death of William M. Lanning. Judge 
of the United States Circuit Court for the 
Third District, the Bar of New Jersey has lost 
one of its most distinguished members, the Fed- 
eral Bench, one of its ablest officers, the com- 
munity one of its most worthy citizens, and all 
within the circle of his personal acquaintance, 
have lost a much loved friend." 

"Judge Lanning exemplified in his life and 
career the qualities which make for a noble, an 
inspiring type of manhood. Favored with only 
moderate educational advantages, he showed 
himself to be possessed of the true spirit of cul- 
ture by supplementing his training with self- 
cultivation until he could justly claim fit com- 
panionship with those possessed of richer intel- 
lectual acquirements. His zeal for advance in 
knowledge, his willingness to toil to secure it, 
and his ability to grasp the underlying princi- 
ples of the law which, in mature years, he 
adopted as his life work, placed him, in a short 
time, well in the front rank of the younger 
practitioners of Mercer county. He was keen- 
ly sensitive to all the obligations of profession- 
al honor and the best traditions of old school 
lawyers suffered no impairment at his hands. 
His early selection as the legal adviser of the 
city of Trenton was a recognition of superior 
legal attainments acquired during the time with- 
in which the average practitioner is still strug- 
gling for a firm foothold in the ranks. His ap- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



pointment. a little later, to the judgeship of the 
District Court of the city of Trenton, happily 
for him, gave the opportunity to show his pe- 
culiar qualifications for judicial position, and 
demonstrated anew the fact that the dignity of 
public service and the honor that will flow from 
duty well performed does not depend upon the 
rank of office, but that the official may exalt his 
station by his personal character and the quality 
of the service he renders. 

"When Judge Lanning. after three years' ser- 
vice as Judge of the City District Court, left 
the bench again to devote himself wholly to ac- 
tive practice, the prestige and standing of the 
court had been much advanced and his reputa- 
tion as an able and conscientious lawyer had 
been greatly increased. From this time he 
stood in the forefront of the bar of Mercer 
county, and was regarded as among the lead- 
ing lawyers of the State. 

"His election to Congress was without sacri- 
fice of civic principle, without resort to discred- 
itable conduct on his part, and he entered, some- 
what regretfully, upon the discharge of his du- 
ties as a representative, with the same zealous 
purpose to act well his part which had always 
characterized his work as a lawyer and a judge. 
"His career as a legislator was brief, for with 
the generous approval of all who knew him he 
was named by President Roosevelt for the more 
congenial position of Judge of the United 
States District Court for the District of New 
Jersey, to succeed the late Judge Kirkpatrick. 
Here he found a work that he liked and that 
was suited to him. His tasks, his abilities and 
his duties so complemented each other it was 
but natural to see him soon gain a reputation 
as a strong Federal judge. And when President 
Taft promoted him to the position of Judge of 
the United States Circuit Court, it was uni- 
formly regarded as an acknowledgment of 
demonstrated fitness and as a due reward for 
dnty ably and honorably performed. Through- 
out his career on the Federal Bench in the Dis- 
trict and the Circuit Court, he grew steadily in 
public esteem as a strong, able and impartial 
judge. He was commissioned by nature for a 
judicial position before man gave him the op- 
portunity to mount to the seat for which he was 
so well qualified by temperament, by an indefat- 
igable industry and by a conscientiousness that 
could brook neither partiality to friend nor in- 
justice to foe. 

"But he was more than an able lawyer, more 
than an impartial, upright judge. He was in 
the true sense of the word a loyal son. a true 
husband, a devoted father, a good citizen, a 



Christian gentleman. An unswerving consci- 
entiousness ran like a golden thread through 
all his course of action in public as well as in 
private life. They who labored for public wel- 
fare, for honest methods in public life, and for 
social uplift, found sympathy and support in 
him. He was essentially a religious man and 
duty was the star by which his life course was 
guided. He was devoted to the church denomi- 
nation in whose fold he had been reared, whose 
tenets he had been taught, yet he was liberal 
in his judgment and catholic in his sympathies. 
"The index to his character was revealed in 
a word privately uttered at the decease of his 
father, but a few years before his own untime- 
ly death, that his parent had left a rich inheri- 
tance, not in money, but in a good name, and it 
would seem that the Bar of New Jersey can pay 
no better tribute to his memory than to record 
that just as he received from his father the 
priceless inheritance of an untarnished name, so 
he has, in turn, as his most valuable bequest, 
transmitted, unsullied, that inheritance to those 
who came after him." 

Remarks of United States Circuit Judge 
Joseph Buffington, on the opening of Court 
at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, February i6, 
1912 : 

"It becomes the sad duty of this Court to 
record on its minutes today the fact of the 
death of William M. Lanning, Circuit Judge of 
the Third Circuit, which occurred at an early 
hour this morning at his home in Trenton, New 
Jersey. This is neither the time nor the place 
for a tribute worthy of our colleague and 
friend, but I cannot forbear to give voice to 
that deep sense of loss which the Bar, the 
Bench, his State and Country will feel in the 
ending of a life before its allotted time, largely 
as 1 believe, through his self-sacrificing devo- 
tion to judicial duty. In these days when courts 
and judges are so freely criticised, he was one 
who went unblamed. and it is my privilege to 
here record my profound conviction that Judge 
Lanning in every relation of life and duty meas- 
ured up to the highest standards of one who is 
called upon to do his quiet and faithful part in 
the administering of human justice. Born in 
the plain walks of life and with a broad, human 
sympathy for all sorts and conditions of men, 
place and authority never changed the simplici- 
ty of his nature. With a frame used to the 
hard work of a farm in his youth, he had in his 
matured life a capacity for work that knew no 
halting while any case was undecided. The 



170 




■■^^§5Sgss-"^" 



ffl,^. 




CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



law's delays had no place in his calendar or his 
court. With a robust honesty of heart, he 
sought, as for a pearl of great price, the right 
of every case and to find that right, no labor 
was too long, no record too large, no detail too 
small. His knowledge of legal decisions and 
principles was profound, but with a great 
breadth of sound and saving common sense he 
never let the practical be overpowered by the 
technical. He was essentially a learned common 
sense judge. As advancement came to him and 
his sphere broadened, he broadened with that 
sphere. While cheerily carrying, as his col- 
leagues know, more than his share of judicial 
work, he freely gave of his great working pow- 
ers and of his warm, sympathetic personality, 
to the affairs of his city, his State and his 
church. His counsel and wise-guiding will he 
missed in his city, in the boards of great, edu- 
cational schools, in the councils of a great 
church. In the courts of this circuit he will 
be missed in a measure we all dread to face. 
Patient in hearing, courteous in manner, stu- 
dious in research, honest in instinct, tenacious 
for the right as he saw it. but when convinced 
he was wrong turning to the right with a frank- 
i;ess that bespoke the honesty of a true and 
fearless nature, he was all a judge should be. 
Reverently drawing aside the veil of his inner 
life, as a colleague of years may do, I wish to 
bear testimony to his unsullied life and to a 
great man's simple and childlike faith in the 
Friend in whose keeping we leave him." 



BIGELOW, Moses, 

Financier, Fnblic Official. 

The lives of such men as Moses Bige- 
low, the last ante-bellum mayor of Newark, 
New Jersey, whose term of ofifice extend- 
ed through more than half of that momen- 
tous struggle, are a source of inspiration 
which cannot well be overestimated. At 
that time there was a strong feeling of sym- 
pathy with the South manifested in New- 
ark, and this largely increased the difficul- 
ties he found it necessary to contend with 
during his administration. 

Mayor Moses Bigelow, only son of Tim- 
othy and Hannah Ogden (Meeker) Bige- 
low, was born on the family homestead at 
Lyons Farms, Newark, January 12, 1800, 
and died in the same city, January 10, 1874. 

171 



The schools of Newark and Elizabethtown 
furnished his education, which his earnest, 
studious nature made a thorough one, and 
which was supplemented by much and well 
chosen reading. For a time he took up the 
study of law in the office of Governor Wil- 
liam Pennington, and while it proved of 
great interest to him, upon attaining his 
majority, he preferred to identify himself 
with a manufacturing career as far as bus- 
iness pursuits were concerned. For more 
than fifty years he was active in this line 
of industry, and was also connected with a 
variety of other enterprises. In associa- 
tion with John P. Jackson and J. M. Meek- 
er he secured the incorporation of the Mor- 
ris & Essex railroad in 1835 ; he draughted 
the charter of the Mechanics' Fire jNIarine 
Insurance Company, a prosperous institu- 
tion for many years : and was an incorpor- 
ator and director of the Bank of New Jer- 
sey, the Howard Savings Institution, the 
Firemen's Insurance Company, the Repub- 
lic Trust Company, the Citizen's Gas Light 
Company, and a number of local corpora- 
tions. He served as the first president of 
the New Jersey Society for the Prevention 
of Cruelty to .Animals, and was appointed 
by the Supreme Court as one of the trus- 
tees of the Trenton Asylum for the Insane, 
which office he filled efficiently for many 
years. 

In 1856 he was elected mayor of the city 
of Newark, being the first representative 
of the Democratic party to hold that of- 
fice, and so wise and discreet was his man- 
agement of municipal affairs, that he was 
re-elected four times. One biographer 
writes of him : "He was unusually well- 
equipped for such a position. Cautious, re- 
ticent, independent and firm, his conduct 
was uniformly even and correct yet his 
success never led him to unseemly self-as- 
sertion or personal ambition. .'\s mayor he 
inaugurated a system of block maps to 
facilitate taxation and numbering of 
houses : procured the establishment of sink- 
ing funds to extinguish the city debt; 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



brought about the purchase of private wa- 
ter rights and the formation of the Newark 
Aqueduct Board ; organized a police de- 
partment, a dispensary of medicines for the 
poor, and a board of health ; and directed 
the codification of the city ordinances, and 
the modification or repeal of various ob- 
noxious ordinances. During the Civil War 
he made the financial affairs of the city 
his especial care and negotiated all public 
loans, and it is high tribute to him to re- 
cord that all his plans were approved and 
adopted by the common council. In per- 
son he had an impressive presence ; he was 
of superior intelligence and entire sinceri- 
ty, and withal, liberal in benevolence. He 
was intensely fond of literature, and his 
evenings were devoted to his books and his 
library." 

Mayor Bigelow's direct and searching 
criticism was the immediate cause of the 
establishment of the Newark Police De- 
partment. In part, he said : "The present 
organization of the police (evidently the 
constables and marshals), and of the 
watch department, I think very defective. 
The peace and tranquility of the city 
and the security and protection of the prop- 
erty of the citizens require an active and 
energetic performance of the duties of each 
department. The service rendered under 
the present organization is altogether inad- 
equate to the expense incurred. I would 
recommend that it be made a subject of 
your inquiry whether it would not be more 
economical and whether the energy and 
«fificiency of each would not be promoted 
by reorganizing the police and watch de- 
partments and putting them under one 
head." 

Just prior to the Civil War, the senti- 
ments of Mayor Bigelow when once pub- 
lished, were of great influence in determin- 
ining the stand taken by Newark on this 
momentous question. At the close of his 
annual message to the Common Council, in 
January, 1861, he said: 



"In closing this communication, I feel it to be 
my duty to refer to the importance and solemn- 
ity of the present crisis in the political affairs 
of Our Country, the first effect of which has 
been a general prostration of its industrial in- 
terests, and, unless, soon adjusted, will cause 
unprecedented deprivation and suffering. I re- 
gard the Union of these States as indispensable 
to the liberty, peace and prosperity of our 
people, and the great source of happiness at 
home and honor and respect abroad. When 
compared with the question of its preservation, 
the transitory issues of party should be regard- 
ed as mere 'dust in the balance.' The great prob- 
lem is now before us : How can it be preserv- 
ed? Our Constitution was formed to perfect 
and perpetuate it, establish domestic tranquility 
and promote the general welfare, and its noble 
and patriotic framers laid its foundation in the 
spirit and principles of compromise and conces- 
sion, political and social comity, and fraternal 
forbearance ; — and if, in the conflicts of party 
strife, or amid the excitements of party pas- 
sion, we have departed from this spirit, we 
should hasten to retrace our steps — for if we 
are to live under one Constitution, with one 
country and one destiny, we must be one people, 
not in form and name, but one in affection, and 
one brotherhood loyal to the rights and institu- 
tions of all. and with a union of hearts and 
hands, sustaining in a sincere and generous spir- 
it the compromises of the Constitution as the 
only means of preserving the great Ark of our 
safety — the Union. 

"Without a prospect of continued and per- 
manent peace there can be no permanent happi- 
ness and prosperity: and shall our dearest in- 
terests be sacrificed or put in jeopardy by con- 
test about abstractions which the laws of cli- 
mate, production and immigration, together 
with territorial position, will practically settle 
under the Constitution and Supreme Judiciary 
of the country, to which all are bound to sub- 
mit? As citizens of New Jersey, and the rep- 
resentatives of her most flourishing and impor- 
tant city, I congratulate you upon her record as 
a State faithful to the Constitution and loyal to 
the rights and institutions of all her sisters in 
the Confederacy. Let us endeavor to extend 
and perpetuate this spirit within her borders, 
and in emulation of the teachings and example 
of Him who 'spake as never man spake.' con- 
tinue to 'render unto Caesar the things that are 
Caesar's,' firmly trusting that under Providence 
our great and powerful Union of States will 
ever remain like the mighty waters which bound 



172 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



its eastern and western shores — though distinct 
as the billows, yet one as the sea.' " 

Hbn. Moses Bigelow married, February 
4, 1836, Julia Ann Breckinridge, a daugh- 
ter of Dr. Samuel Fowler, for a long time 
a member of Congress, and noted as a min- 
eralogist ; and a granddaughter of Colonel 
Mark Thompson, an officer in the Conti- 
nental Army, deputy to the Provincial Con- 
gress, and member of Congress during the 
time of Washington. They had children : 
Samuel Fowler, who attained high office 
and fame in the legal profession ; Moses, 
a sketch of whom also appears in this work ; 
Frederick, who achieved distinction for his 
excellent work in matters connected with 
religion ; Josephine. 

Always a man of action, Mr. Bigelow 
demonstrated his public spirit by actual ser- 
vice which redounded to the welfare of the 
community. He possessed marked admin- 
istrative ability, and his dominant charac- 
teristics were stamped upon his countenance. 
Calm and deliberate, he never engaged in 
any undertaking, whether of a public or 
private nature, without due and careful 
consideration ; then, when his plans were 
well and clearly formed, he strode forward 
without hesitation to the goal he had set 
for himself. 



BIGELOW, Moses, 

Manafactnrer, Admirable Citizen. 

When "Finis" closes the book of life of 
any individual, it is customary for friends 
and acquaintances to glance in review over 
the pages of its history and ponder over 
the lessons it contains, treasuring up the 
good as an example of conduct that may 
well be followed. .^ study of the life record 
of Moses Bigelow, of Newark, New Jer- 
sey, shows much to admire and to emulate. 
While intensely devoted to business, and a 
man of very decided views and strong con- 
victions, he was by nature of a gentle and 
affectionate disposition. His moral stand- 
ard was high and he lived up to it. His 



genial companionship, his tenacious regard 
for the simple truth, his unostentious gen- 
erosity and large-hearted Christian benevo- 
lence were among the qualities which en- 
deared him to his friends. 

Moses Bigelow, son of the Hon. Moses 
and Julia Ann Breckinridge (Fowler) Bige- 
low, was born in Newark, New Jersey, in 
1838, and died March 26, 1897. He was 
educated in Dr. Hedges' School and the 
Freehold Institute, and, like his gifted fath- 
er, was a deep and earnest student from his 
earliest years. Upon attaining manhood 
he became associated with his father in the 
manufacture of varnishes, and was identi- 
fied with this industry many years. As a 
citizen, he was always active and influential 
in advancing the welfare of his place of 
residence, and was liberal in his contribtt- 
tions toward this end. But it was not alone 
of his wealth that he gave ; he contributed 
that which was of far greater value — his 
time, personal service and counsel. Among 
the numerous official positions he held 
were: Promoter, trustee and treasurer of 
the Newark Technical School ; trustee and 
treasurer of the New Jersey Reform 
School at Jamesburg ; and his talks with 
the boys who attended the former and were 
inmates of the latter, were of incalculable 
benefit. In the political affairs of the city 
he was also a factor to be reckoned with, 
and at various times filled public office. He 
affiliated with the Democratic party, serv- 
ed as assemblyman, and was delegate at 
large from New Jersey to the Democratic 
National Convention of 1892. He was also 
delegate to several other State and Nation- 
al conventions. He was a member of the 
Essex County Country Club ; a member 
and at one time governor of the Essex 
Club of Newark ; member of the Jeffer- 
sonian Club of Newark, and of the Re- 
form Oub of New York City. 

Mr. Bigelow married, at the Church of 
the Heavenly Rest, New York City, June 
17, 1875, Eliza Rebecca, a daughter of 
Colonel Samuel Fowler, of Franklin, Sus- 



^71 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



sex county : granddaughter of General John 
Mifflin Brodhead, of Pennsylvania ; and 
great-granddaughter of Colonel Robert Og- 
den, of New Jersey. They had children : 
Moses Bigelow (third), born in 1876; Hen- 
ry Brodhead, deceased, born in 1878; Hen- 
rietta Fowler, born in 1880, married Robert 
Hamilton Southard ; Frederic, born Febru- 
ary 17, 1882 ; John Ogden, born September 
30, 1883. Mr. Bigelow was a man of most 
sympathetic and kindly nature and never 
withheld his aid from the afflicted or dis- 
tressed. That his confidence and faith 
were in tliis way sometimes betrayed can- 
not be doubted, yet he never repined at loss- 
es which came through extending assis- 
tance to those less fortunate than himself. 
In his death the community lost a truly 
noble man and a valued citizen. 



KELLAM, Luther H., 

Financier, Fnblic Benefactor. 

Although of Pennsylvania birth and a 
prominent business man of Philadelphia, 
Mr. Kellam was for eighteen years a resi- 
dent of Camden, then until his death, many 
years later, was an honored citizen of Had- 
donfield. New Jersey. While his business 
interests were confined to Philadelphia, he 
entered with a wholehearted interest into 
the civic life of Camden and Haddonfield, 
serving loyally and efficiently the church, 
the Young Men's Christian Association, and 
generously supporting the philanthropies of 
"both places. He was an earnest supporter 
of good government, and while president 
of the Law and Order Society fought vig- 
orously for the abolition of the race track 
at Gloucester, his efforts contributing large- 
ly toward the final victory over that menace 
to civic righteousness. In Haddonfield he 
served two years in borough council, and 
in his building operations aided in its im- 
provement by the erection of only fine 
homes. His life was long and honorably 
spent, his example worthy of emulation, and 
in all the requirements of Christian citizen- 



ship he measured up to the full stature of 
a man. 

The ancestors of Mr. Kellam were early 
settlers in New London county, Connecticut, 
where his great-grandfather, Luther Kel- 
lum, resided until 1803, then migrated to 
Susquehanna county, Pennsylvania. He 
was a soldier of the Revolution, serving 
under several enlistments during the war, 
his actual service amounting to six full 
years, in which time he saw hard service 
and was in three severe battles, including 
White Plains. He settled in Susquehanna 
county when it was almost an unbroken 
forest, but he strove manfully, felled, plow- 
ed, sowed, and reaped, finally reaching a fair 
degree of prosperity and seeing his children 
in positions of independence, allied with the 
best blood of the region. He was born in 
Stonington, Connecticut, January 3, 1760, 
died in Forest Lake township, Susquehanna 
county, Pennsylvania, June 5, 1845, a true 
Christian, and although in his eighty-sixth 
year, in full possession of all his faculties. 
His wife. Amy Hewitt, born in 1764, died 
November 5, 1827. 

Samuel Hewitt, son of Luther and Amy 
(Hewitt) Kellum, moved to Ohio, where 
he died, in Sandusky, in 181 5. He mar- 
ried, at Bridgewater, Pennsylvania, June 

13, 181 1, Fanny, daughter of Caleb and 
Susan (Wilcox) Bush. Children: Lyman 
Woodward and Samuel L. 

Samuel Lewis, youngest son of Samuel 
Hewitt and Fanny (Bush) Kellum, changed 
the spelling of his name, and in this branch 
Kellam is the accepted form. He was bom 
at Bridgewater. Pennsylvania, June 11, 
1814, died at Elizabeth, New Jersey, Febru- 
ary 22, 1887. He married, October 22, 
1835, Alice Lathrop Bagley, born October 

14, 1812, died at Mauch Chunk, Pennsyl- 
vania, August 8. 1852. Children: Helen 
Josephine, died in infancy; Everett Manly, 
died in infancy: Luther Hewitt, of further 
mention ; William Oscar, died in childhood ; 
Emma Louisa, died in childhood. 

Luther Hewitt, son of Samuel Lewis and 



174 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Alice Lathrop (Bagley) Kellam. was born 
in Carbondale, Pennsylvania, April 13, 1844, 
died at his residence in Haddonfield, New 
Jersey, July 16, 1914. He attended the 
public schools of the anthracite coal region 
of Pennsylvania, and later took a full course 
at Dickinson College, when he was honor 
man in mathematics. In 1867 he moved 
from Mauch Chunk to Philadelphia. He 
engaged in the coal business most suc- 
cessfully in association with his brother- 
in-law, George B. Newton, continuing until 
his retirement. He resided in Camden, 
New Jersey, for eighteen years, moving to 
Haddonfield in 1899, and there residing 
until his death. In Camden he served as 
vice-president and director of the Economy 
Building and Loan Association, and as di- 
rector of the North Camden Building and 
Loan Association. He fought the forces 
of evil in civic life, was president of the 
taw and Order Society, worked untiringly 
in behalf of the Citizens' League, was most 
generous and helpful in his connection with 
the Young Men's Christian Association and 
the hospitals of Camden, as well as with 
other philanthropies. In Haddonfield. Mr. 
Kellam was a director of the Camden Coun- 
ty Building and Loan Association, and per- 
sonally caused a number of fine homes to 
be erected. He continued his interest in 
public affairs, served two terms as borough 
councilman, and was one of the potent 
forces for good in his community. Iri re- 
ligious faith he was a Presbyterian, belong- 
ing in Camden to the First Church, which 
he served for many years as treasurer. In 
Haddonfield he united with the First Pres- 
byterian Church, and there labored with 
his old zeal for the advancement of all that 
tended to better the community, loyally sup- 
porting all good causes. 

Mr. Kellam married, at Elizabeth. New 
Jersey, August 31, 1865, Charlotte, daughter 
of Lawrence Durling and .A.lmira ( Fellows) 
Knowles. She was born in Mauch Chunk, 
May 31, 1839. died in Haddonfield, Au- 
gust 9, 1909. Children : Alice Bagley, mar- 



ried Wellington Bechtel, and resides in Had- 
donfield ; Lawrence Durling, deceased ; 
Samuel Luther, deceased : Ralph Newton, 
a lawyer of the Philadelphia and New Jer- 
sey bar, married Elizabeth Cowley, daughter 
of F. George Crump, and resides in Mer- 
chantville. New Jersey. 



KEAN, John, 

LiBLvrjeT, Man of Affairs, Statesman. 

Senator John Kean was the third John 
Kean to win prominence, the first having 
been his great-grandfather, John Kean, of 
South Carolina, who was a delegate to the 
Continental Congress 1785-87, and cashier 
of the first Bank of the United States at 
Philadelphia. He married Susan, daugh- 
ter of Peter Van Brugh and Mary (Alex- 
ander) Livingtson, the former a son of 
Philip Livingston, Second Lord of the 
Manor of Livingston, New York, the latter 
a daughter of James Alexander, Surveyor- 
General of New York and New Jersey. 
John Kean died 1796, and his widow mar- 
ried (second) in 1800 Julian Niemcewiecz, 
a Polish patriot and litterateur, who came 
to America with Kosciusko. The same year 
she bought "Liberty Hall" built by her 
Uncle William Livingston, first governor 
of the State of New Jersey, and changed 
its name to Ursino, after Count Niemce- 
wiecz's place in Poland, from which time 
it has been in the Kean family. 

Peter Philip James Kean, born in Eliz- 
abethtown. New Jersey, 27th February, 
1788 ; died at New Lebanon, New York, Oc- 
tober 2, 1828; son of John and Susan (Liv- 
ingston) Kean. He graduated from Prince- 
ton L^niversity 1807. He was prominent 
in the military affairs of the State of New 
Jersey, and in 1824. when the Marquis de 
Lafayette revisited the United States, Gov- 
ernor Isaac N. Williamson appointed Ma- 
jor Kean to the reception committee to wel- 
come him to the State ; a post to which his 
fluent knowledge of French proved an add- 
ed qualification. At the time of his death. 



175 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Mr. Kean was colonel of the Fourth Regi- 
ment of the State of New Jersey. He mar- 
ried, i8th February, 1813, Sarah Sabina, 
daughter of General Jacob and Mary 
(Cox) Morris. General Jacob Morris was 
a son of Lewis Morris, signer of the Dec- 
laration of Independence. 

John (2) Kean, born March 27, 1814, 
at Ursino, son of Peter Philip James Kean, 
was a graduate of Princeton, class of 1834, 
and one of the leading men of his day. He 
was one of the original stockholders of the 
Camden & Amboy Railroad, was one of 
the organizers and builders of the Central 
Railroad of New Jersey, its vice-president 
for many years, and from 1841 to 1847 
served as its president. He was for a long 
time president of the National State Bank 
of Elizabeth, president of the Elizabeth- 
town Gas Light Company, and interested 
in many other enterprises of note. He was 
active in politics, first as a Whig, later as 
a Republican. He was vestryman of St. 
John's Protestant Episcopal Church in 
Elizabeth for many years, and possessed 
many exceedingly fine qualities that endear- 
ed him to a very large circle of friends. 
His personal appearance was most striking, 
his finely proportioned body agreeing with 
his great height. It is said he never forgot 
a face and was most courteous in his treat- 
ment of all. He died in New York City 
in January, 1895, aged eighty-one years. 

He married, January 13, 1847, Lucy, 
daughter of Caleb Ogden and Caroline 
Louise (Pitney) Halsted. Children: 
Peter Philip, died in 1848; Caroline Morris, 
married George Lockhart Rives ; Susan 
Livingston ; John, mentioned below ; Julian 
Halsted, graduate of Yale L^niversity, class 
of '76, and Columbia Law School, LL.B., 
a prominent business man of Elizabeth, 
New Jersey ; Christine Griffin, married W. 
Emlen Roosevelt ; Lucy Halsted ; Hamil- 
ton Fish, an eminent banker of New York 
City, senior member of Kean, Taylor & 
Company, and prominent as executive and 
director in many large corporations, he is 

176 



active in Republican politics in New Jersey, 
he married Katharine Taylor, daughter of 
Robert and Kate Wilson (Taylor) Win- 
throp of New York ; Elizabeth d'Haute- 
ville ; Alexander Livingston. 

John (3) Kean, son of John (2) and 
Lucy (Halsted) Kean, born in "Ursino" 
(near Elizabeth), New Jersey, December 
4, 1852, lived and died there November 4, 
1914. John Kean (3), after preparing in 
private schools, entered Yale University, 
class of '76, but did not graduate, receiving 
however from Yale in 1890 the honorary 
degree of Master of Arts. He entered Co- 
lumbia Law School, was graduated LL. B., 
class of '75, was admitted to the New Jer- 
sey bar in 1877, but never practised. He 
was associated in business with his father, 
whom later he succeeded in many of his 
official positions and enterprises, becoming 
president of the National State Bank of 
Elizabeth, president of the Elizabethtown 
Water Company, president of the Eliza- 
bethtown Gas Light Company, vice-presi- 
dent of the Manhattan Trust Company, 
trustee of the Atlas Assurance Company 
(Limited) of London, and was largely in- 
terested in other corporations of note. He 
took an active interest in politics from his 
earliest youth. 

His wealth and corporate connections 
rendered him a man of importance, while 
his congeniality gained him many friends, 
so that in 1882 he was the Republican nom- 
inee for Congress. He served in the For- 
ty-eighth Congress (1883-85), was defeat- 
ed for reelection, was renominated and 
elected two years later, serving in the Fif- 
tieth Congress (1887-89). He was an im- 
portant factor in the legislation of that 
period, and won a firm position among the 
national leaders. He was chairman of the 
New Jersey Republican State Committee 
in 1891-92, and in the latter year, was the 
party candidate for governor of New Jer- 
sey, but was defeated by William T. Werts. 
In 1889 h^ was the unanimous choice of 
the party caucus for Senator, was duly 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



elected and from 1889 until 191 1, was 
United States Senator from New Jersey, 
having been reelected in 1905. Those twelve 
years brought out the full strength of his 
ability, and proved his right to rank with 
the great leaders of his day although he 
figured but little in public debate. He was 
chosen secretary of the Senate caucus, and 
was chairman of the committee on contin- 
gent expenses. He was a practical poli- 
tician, keeping himself in the background, 
but furnishing facts, figures and plans by 
which others worked. His house in Wash- 
ington was known both as a political and 
a social centre. 

After retiring from the Senate in 191 1, 
at the expiration of his term, Senator 
Kean lived quietly at "Ursino" until his 
death, November 4. 1914. a singular and 
interesting character, a useful man in his 
own chosen path, a friend well worth hav- 
ing, and one of the men of his day against 
whose honor there was not even an impu- 
tation. Senator Kean never married. 



BREESE. Captain James Buchanan, 

Distinguished Officer of IT. S. Marines. 

Captain James Buchanan Breese, late of 
Trenton, New Jersey, was a descendant of 
English ancestry, his great-great-grandfath- 
er having come to America in the first half 
of the eighteenth century. 

Sidney Breese, the American progenitor 
of the family of which Captain Breese was 
a distinguished representative, was the son 
of an English clergyman, was born in 
Shrewsbury, England, in 1709, and died in 
New York City, June 9, 1767. He was a 
Jacobite but, the cause of the Young Pre- 
tender failing, he came to America as pur- 
ser on board a man-of-war, and remained in 
this country. He was an eccentric char- 
acter, and wrote his own epitapli which may 
be still seen in Trinity Churchyard, New 
York City. It reads : "Ha Sidney! Sidney! 
lyest thou here? I here lye till time is 
flown to its Eternity." He married, Febru- 

177 
II— 12 



ary 14, 1733, Elizabeth Pinkethman, born 
in New York City, in 1710, died in Shrews- 
bury, New Jersey. 

Colonel Samuel Breese, son of Sidney 
and Elizabeth (Pinkethman) Breese, was 
born in New York City, May 28, 1737, died 
in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, 1801-02. He 
was colonel of the Third Regiment, Mon- 
mouth County, New Jersey, and in his 
records we read that "his mother, nee Eliza- 
zeth Pinkethman, a wealthy woman of New 
York, was devoted to Washington and the 
cause he represented, and advanced him 
large sums of money for the prosecution 
of the war." Colonel Breese married, Janu- 
ary 7, 1768, Elizabeth Anderson, bom in 
Philadelphia, December 21, 1743, died in 
Semonda, New York, in March, 1832. Col- 
onel Breese was esteemed for his integrity ; 
he was a gentleman of tht old school and 
very popular in New York and Philadelphia 
society. 

Arthur Breese, Esq., son of Colonel Sam- 
uel and Elizabeth (Anderson) Breese, was 
born in Shrewsbury, New Jersey, August 18 
or September 16, 1770, and died in New 
York City, August 14, 1825. He married in 
Poughkeepsie, New York, November 4, 
1793, Catherine Livingston, born in Pough- 
keepsie, August 18, 1774. died in Utica, 
New York, August 21, 1808. The Living- 
ston line will be found forward. 

Hon. Sidney Breese, son of Arthur and 
Catherine (Livingston) Breese, was born 
in Whitesboro, Oneida county. New York, 
July 15, 1800, and died at Pinckneyville, 
Illinois, June 27, 1878. He was graduated 
from L^nion College in 1818, studied law. 
removed to Illinois in 1821, and was there 
admitted to the bar. In succession he fill- 
ed the offices of town postmaster. Assistant 
Secretary of State, State's Attorney, and 
Lfnited States Attorney for Illinois. He 
was a commissioned officer in the State 
militia, and served as lieutenant of volun- 
teers during the Black Hawk War. In 1835 
he was appointed circuit judge, and in 1841, 
Judge of the Supreme Court of the State. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



He was elected to the United States Senate 
in 1843 on the Democratic ticket, served 
until 1849 ''"d- while chairman of the com- 
mittee on public lands, made a report favor- 
ing the establishment of a transcontinental 
railway. He was a member of the House 
of Representatives of Illinois, and was elect 
ed its speaker in 1850. He was again ap- 
pointed judge of the Circuit Court in 1855. 
and was its chief. He was elected justice 
of the Supreme Court of the State in 1857, 
became Chief Justice in 1873, ^^^ ^^'^ this 
office until his death. He was one of the 
organizers of the Illinois Central railroad, 
and was regent of the Smithsonian Insti- 
tution from 1845 '^o 1849. He published a 
volume of "Decisions of the Supreme 
Court," 1829; a work on Illinois in 1869: 
"The Origin and History of the Pacific 
Railroad," 1869. Judge Breese married in 
Kaskaskia, New York. September 4. 1823, 
Eliza Morrison, born July 23. 1808. a 
daughter of William Morrison. 

Captain James Buchanan Breese. son of 
Judge Sidney and Eliza (Morrison) Breese. 
was born in Clinton county. Illinois, in 1847, 
and died February 7, 1887. His record as 
given at the headquarters of the United 
States Marine Corps, Washington, District 
of Columbia, is as follows: "James B. 
Bree?e was appointed a second lieutenant 
in the United States Marine Corps. March 
18, 1864; he was promoted first lieutenant. 
May I. 1868. and resigned while holding 
tlie latter rank, December 5. 1879." Dur- 
ing the Civil War he entered the United 
States Marine Corps, as ensign, and when 
he left it many years later, he had attained 
the rank of captain. At the time of the 
expedition to Corea, he was attached to the 
Flagship "Colorado." as lieutenant of ma- 
rines, under Captain McLaine, and at the 
storming of the forts, June 10, 1871, was 
with Lieutenant Tilton the first to enter and 
hoist the Stars and Stripes. At the Exhibi- 
tion in Paris in 1878 he served as militarv- 
aide to the American Commission. After 
his retirement from service he resided in 



Trenton, New Jersey, with his family until 
his death, an honored and respected citizen, 
his remains being interred in Riverview 
Cemetery. 

Captain Breese married Josephine Orms- 
by Yard, who now lives in the family man- 
sion on State street, Trenton, and had chil- 
dren : Edward Yarde, Elsie Morrison, 
James Buchanan and Mary Ormsby. The 
final "e" in the name of the eldest son, Ed- 
ward Yarde Breese, was added at the desire 
of his Grandfather Yard, as that was the 
original English form of the name. 

(The Yard Family). 

William Yard, great-great-great-grand- 
father of Mrs. Breese, emigrated from Dev- 
onshire, England, where his father, Richard 
Yard, was high sheriff, and landed at Phila- 
delphia in 1688. He was among the earliest 
settlers of Trenton, New Jersey, and served 
as clerk of the courts in 1720. 

Joseph, son of William Yard, was a mem- 
ber of the King's Council of New Jersey, 
and donated a part of the site for the First 
Presbyterian Church in Trenton, of which 
city he was a resident. He was the last sur- 
vivor of the first Board of Trustees of this 
church, and by his will donated a legacy to 
Princeton College. 

Archibald Williams Yard, son of Joseph 
Yard, was a business man of Trenton, and 
was almost eighty years of age at the time 
of his death in 1810. 

Edward M. Yard, son of Archibald Wil- 
liams Yard, was born in 1761, and died in 
Trenton. New Jersey, in 1839. As a young 
lad he obtained a position in a counting- 
house in Philadelphia, but soon went to sea 
on one of the vessels belonging to his em- 
ployer. This was succeeded by a second , 
voyage when, the Revolutionary War hav- ^ 
ing commenced, the vessel was captured by 
the British, and young Breese was compell- 
ed to serve on a British man-of-war for a 
period of two years, and was then taken to 
an English prison. He managed to escape 
and, after many adventures, arrived in this 



178 



I 




i 




^i^^t>^ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



country, after an absence of seven years. 
Immediately after the war he was engaged 
in the mercantile trade between here and 
Madeira, sailing the vessels of his father and 
two other distinguished merchants of Tren- 
ton, and later became interested in the trade 
between this country and the West Indies. 
In 1795 he engaged in East India trade, and 
he was among the first to establish trade 
with China. Later he devoted much time 
and attention to shipping until the embargo 
in 1808, when he retired. He married Abi- 
gail, who died in 1821, a daughter of Dr. 
Joseph Phillips, of Maidenhead, and had 
three children. 

Captain Edward M. Yard, son of Ed- 
ward M. and Abigail (Phillips) Yard, was 
born in Trenton, November 24. 1809, died 
May 2, 1889, and is buried beside his wife 
in the Allegheny Cemetery, Pittsburgh. He 
was but eighteen years of age when, No- 
vember I, 1827, he became a midshipman 
in the United States Navy, took part in 
the war with Mexico and California, and 
was one of the pioneers in the latter State. 
From 1861 to 1865 he was a conspicuous 
figure in the Civil War, rising through the 
various grades to that of captain, by rea- 
son of his gallantry and bravery. He retir- 
ed from the navy in 1866 after a con- 
tinuous period of service of almost thirty- 
nine years. He commanded the United 
States sloop-of-war "Bailey," and did ord- 
nance duty in the Navy Yard at New York 
in 1863, and at the Pittsburgh Ordnance 
Proving Ground in 1864-65. Captain Yard 
married, in 1853, Josephine Ormsby, of 
Pittsburgh, who died the following year, 
leaving an only child: Josephine Ormsby 
Yard, who married Captain Breese, as 
above stated. 

(The Livingston Line). 

Colonel Robert Livington, first Lord ot 
the Manor, was bom in Scotland, December 
13, 1654, and died in Albany, New York, 
in 1728. He married in Albany, July 9, 
1679 (O. S.), Alida (Schuyler) Van Rens- 



selaer, born in Albany, 1655-56, died in 
New York, 1739. 

Colonel Gilbert Livingston, son of Col- 
onel Robert and Alida (Schuyler) (Van 
Rensselaer) Livingston, was born in Liv- 
ingston Manor, March 6, 1698-90, died in 
New York State, April 25, 1746. He mar- 
ried, December 22, 171 1, Cornelia Beekman, 
bom January 18, 1693, died in New York, 
June 24, 1742. 

Henry Livingston, son of Colonel Gilbert 
and Cornelia (Beekman) Livingston, was 
born in Poughkeepsie, New York, Augu,5t 
29, 1 7 14, died in the same city, February 
10, 1799. He married Susannah, a daugh- 
ter of John Conklin. 

Major Henry Livingston, son of Henry 
and Susannah (Conklin) Livingston, was 
born in Poughkeepsie, New York, October 
13, 1748, and died there, February 29, 1828. 
He was commissioned major of the Third 
Regiment, Ulster county, New York, Au- 
gust 28, 1775, was with General Montgom- 
ery at the siege of St. John's until the occu- 
pation of Montreal, returning to his home in 
December, 1775. He then retired from 
service probably by reason of ill health. He 
married at Stamford, Connecticut, May iS, 
1774, Sarah Welles, born in Stamford, May 
9, 1752. died in Poughkeepsie. September 

I, 1783- 

Catherine Livingston, daughter of Major 
Henry and Sarah (Welles) Livingston, mar- 
ried Arthur Breese, Esq., as mentioned 
above. 



MADDOCK, Harry Smith, 

Pronunent Manof actorer and Financier. 

There is no manufacture in which in re- 
cent years so much progress has been made 
as in that of pottery, and it is the one on 
which the health of the community depends 
in a great measure. Active and careful at- 
tention to all the details of this interesting 
manufacture is an essential, and there is 
none engaged in it at the present time, who 
is more careful and conscientious in this re- 



179 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



spect than was the late Harry Smith Mad- 
dock, of Trenton, New Jersey, president 
of the Thomas Maddock's Sons' Company, 
and closely identified with some other of 
the most important enterprises of Trenton. 
It is only appropriate that, in connection 
with his life, we should give a short re- 
view of his family. 

The Maddocks are of English origin, 
and John Maddock, great-grandfather of 
the subject of this review, removed from 
Old Chester, England, to Staffordshire, 
where he made the acquaintance of John 
Davenport, a manufacturer of porcelain. 
Two of the sons of John Maddock, John 
and Thomas, became adepts in the art of 
decorating porcelain ware, in the factory 
of Mr. Davenport, and John Maddock, Jr., 
organized the firm of John Maddock & 
Sons, P'orcelain Manufacturers, at Burs- 
lem, and this is still in successful existence. 
His brother, Thomas Maddock, married 
Mary Crompton, and upon his death in 
1836, his widow with several of the chil- 
dren came to the United States. She set- 
tled in New York City and its vicinity. 

Thomas Maddock, second son of Thom- 
as and Mary (Crompton) Maddock, left 
England in 1847 with his first wife, came 
to the United States and settled in New 
York, where he started a business for the 
decoration of porcelain at No. 39 Greene 
street. In 1849 li^ removed to larger quar- 
ters at No. 29 Spruce street. Warram & 
Hawghout later made an arrangement with 
them, by which they were to remove to 
the quarters of this firm at No. 563 Broad- 
way, and decorate exclusively for them. 
From every point of view this was a most 
successful arrangement. In 1853 the firm 
of Maddock & Leigh decorated a dinner 
service for the United States government 
for use in the White House while President 
Franklin Pierce was in office, and they also 
decorated a service for the St. Nicholas 
Hotel, of New York City, which was open- 
ed in that year. The following year im- 
paired health, owing to too close attention 

180 



and devotion to business affairs, compelled 
Mr. Maddock to sell his interest to his part- 
ner, and he retired to his farm near Ber- 
nardsville, Somerset county. New Jersey. 
LTpon the complete restoration of his health 
in 1856, he removed to Brooklyn, New 
York, and there purchased the Star Hotel, 
which he conducted eight years. He join- 
ed the Thirteenth Regiment, National 
Guard, in 1859, and in 1861 his regiment 
acted as the escort of the Prince of Wales 
during his visit to this country. In 1866 he 
bought a crockery and glassware business 
in Jersey City, New Jersey, and having 
disposed of the Brooklyn hotel early in 
1867, removed to Jersey City. He pur- 
chased an interest in the Carroll Street Pot- 
tery, at Trenton, New Jersey, in 1872, the 
style of the firm being Millington & Ast- 
bury. The firm name of this pottery, 
which had been established in 1859, was 
later changed to Millington, Astbury & 
Maddock, and they added the manufacture 
of sanitary earthenware. When Mr. Mil- 
lington retired in 1874 the firm was contin- 
ued under the name of Astbury & Mad- 
dock until the death of Mr. Astbury in 
1878, when Mr. Maddock associated with 
himself his three sons, who had been en- 
gaged in individual enterprises in Jersey 
City, and the firm of Thomas Maddock & 
Sons was established in 1882. The adjoin- 
ing pottery, known as the City Pottery, 
was purchased in 1886, and in 1890, that 
part of the plant between Ewing and Car- 
roll streets was destroyed by fire. In 1892 
the Trenton China Pottery, then in the 
hands of a receiver, was purchased, and 
operated as a separate corporation under 
the name of the Maddock Pottery Com- 
pany Lamberton Works. The City Pottery 
section was destroyed by fire in 1892. Mr. 
Maddock married (first) in England, 
Honor Bossom, and (second) in America, 
Isabelle M. Middleton. 

Harry Smith Maddock, son of Thomas 
and Isabelle M. (Middleton) Maddock, 
was born in Brooklyn, New York, July 15, 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



1861, and died at his home in Trenton, 
New Jersey, January 24, 1914, after an ill- 
ness of less than four days. He was very 
young when his parents removed to Jer- 
sey City, and there attended the public 
schools and the Hasbrouck Institute. He 
was of a bright, ambitious and energetic 
nature, and was yet a young lad when he be- 
came associated with his father in the pottery 
business, a thorough knowledge of which 
he acquired under the conscientious tuition 
of his father. He had not quite attained 
his majority when the firm of Thomas 
Maddock & Sons was established. In this 
relation he had ample opportunity for the 
display of his remarkable e.xecutive ability. 
He was a keen student of human nature 
and an excellent judge of character. This 
enabled him to make the best selection of 
men to fill the positions in his control, and 
the friendly interest he always showed in 
the welfare of those under him made them 
regard him with a degree of aflfection not 
often found between master and man. His 
stem sense of justice never permitted him 
to leave a complaint uninvestigated, and the 
natural result of this was a harmony which 
was very satisfactory to both employer and 
employed. Business matters, however, 
were not allowed to engross all of his at- 
tention, and he served as police commis- 
sioner of Trenton for a period of thirteen 
years, during three terms of which he serv- 
ed as president of the Police Board. Among 
other business enterprises with which he 
was connected were The Mechanics' 
National Bank of Trenton, of which he was 
a director ; a director of the Maddock Pot- 
tery Company ; a director of the Jonathan 
Batley Crucible Company ; director of the 
Manufacturers' Association of New Jer- 
sey, and treasurer of the insurance com- 
pany in connection with this organization. 
One of his chief recreations was farming, 
and he maintained a beautiful summer 
home near Pennington, New Jersey. He 
was not a member of any church, but his 
religious views were those of the Metho- 

181 



dist denomination. Fraternally he was a 
member of the Order of Free and Accepted 
Masons, in which he attained the thirty- 
second degree; Benevolent and Protective 
Order of Elks; Ancient Arabic Order of 
Nobles of the Mystic Shrine; Lotos, Tren- 
ton, Trenton Country, Republican and Fel- 
lowcraft clubs, all of Trenton. 

Mr. Maddock married, at Trenton, New 
Jersey, September 8, 1887, Kate Lent, a 
daughter of William and Anna Manser, 
and their son Harold S. was born Novem- 
ber 18, 1890; now vice-president of Thomas 
Maddock's Sons' Company. While the ideas 
of Mr. Maddock were conservative to a 
certain extent, he kept well in touch with 
the trend of the times, and incorporated in 
his plans for the development of the inter- 
ests in his charge, the best ideas to be gath- 
ered from other undertakings of a similar 
nature. He was a man of strong convic- 
tions, which he advocated with emphasis; 
of strong principles, to which he consistent- 
ly adhered ; yet when the general good ap- 
peared to demand it, he could yield with 
grace to the will of the majority. 



SMITH, Charles Perrin, 

Leader in Commniiity and National Affairs 

In the death of Charles Perrin Smith, 
the city of Trenton, State of New Jersey, 
and the country at large, lost a main of in- 
estimable value, a man whose every thought 
was unselfish devotion to his country, a 
man who lived only to better the condition 
of his fellow men. The name he bore is 
one of the most frequent occurrence as a 
surname in all English speaking lands. 

In the history of the world the "smith" 
has been a pioneer of civilization in every 
country, in every clime and in every age. 
He forged the swords and plowshares, and 
made the coats of mail and war chariots of 
all the nations of antiquity. His value as 
a member of the community has never been 
denied. Among our Anglo-Saxon ancestors 
the smith was a member of his lord's coun- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



cil, and at feasts sat in the place of honor, 
at the lord's right hand. The name Smith, 
anciently spelled Smythe, is derived from 
"smite," and signifies "striker," or "one who 
beats," referring to the use of the hammer. 
It was one of the first occupative surnames 
adopted by an English speaking people 
when they stepped out of the twilight of 
the Middle Ages into the light of modern 
civilization. The surname has been borne 
by many distinguished men both in Eng- 
land and America, from early times to the 
present, and it now seems to be as sugges- 
tive of energy, industry and excellence as 
it was a thousand years ago. 

Charles Smith, great-grandfather of 
Charles Perrin Smith, married Margaret 
Perrin, a descendant of the Perrins of Vir- 
ginia, who were prominent in the Huguenot 
colony of that State. Samuel, eldest brother 
of General George Washington, married the 
widow of a Virginia Perrin. 

Perrin, son of Charles and Margaret 
(Perrin) Smith, suffered greatly in the de- 
struction of property by the conflagration 
of Norfolk, the despoiling of his plantation, 
and the carrying away of his negroes by 
the British and refugees. He married Mar- 
garet Wishart, a sister of Thomas Wishart, 
who lost his life in the Continental army, 
and of George, who was captured by the 
enemy and never returned. 

George Wishart Smith, son of Perrin and 
Margaret (Wishart) Smith, was an officer 
in the Maryland Line during the War of 
1812, and at the head of his command took 
part in the repulse of the enemy at St. 
Michael's, by which action that part of the 
State was relieved from further invasion. 
He was a resident of Talbot county, Mary- 
land, at the time of his marriage, but a 
short time prior to his death had removed 
to Philadelphia, where his death occurred. 
He was related by marriage to the Calverts, 
Singletons, Moseleys, Dudleys, Hancocks, 
Lands, Scantlings, and other prominent 
families of the State of Virginia. He mar- 
ried Hannah Carpenter Ellet, who in the 



paternal line was a direct descendant of 
Governor Thomas Lloyd and Samuel Car- 
penter, intimate friends and coadjutors of 
William Penn. Watson says: "The name 
of Samuel Carpenter is connected with 
everything of a public nature in the early 
annals of Pennsylvania; I have seen his 
name at every turn in searching the records. 
He was the Stephen Girard of his day in 
wealth, and the William Sansom in the im- 
provements he suggested and the edifices 
he built. He was one of the greatest im- 
provers and builders in Philadelphia, and 
after William Penn the wealthiest man in 
the Province." Governor Thomas Lloyd, a 
member in high standing of the Society of 
l-'riends, because of religious persecution, 
left his native country, Wales, and with his 
family joined Penn in the colonization of 
Pennsylvania. He was a son of Charles 
and Elizabeth ( Stanley) Lloyd, the latter of 
the Stanley-Derby family, and the former 
of Dolobran, and a descendant of Aleth, 
Prince of Dyfed whose line can be traced 
to the sixth century. The Lloyds are allied 
to many distinguished noble families, and 
trace their descent to Margaret, daughter 
of Philip le Hardie, King of France, and 
who was queen of Edward I. of England. 
The name is found in honorable connection 
with some of the most important events in 
English history. Rachel, a daughter of 
Governor Thomas Lloyd, married Samuel 
Preston, of Maryland, who was mayor of 
Philadelphia in 171 1. Their daughter Han- 
nah married Samuel Carpenter, son of the 
Samuel Carpenter mentioned above, then 
the family became allied by marriage with 
the Ellets. The maternal line of Hannah 
Carpenter (Ellet) Smith is descended from 
John Smith, a colleague of Fenwick in the 
settlement of West Jersey. 

Charles Perrin Smith, son of George Wis- 
hart and Hannah Carpenter (Ellet) Smith, 
was bom in Philadelphia, in 1819, during a 
temporary residence of his family in that 
city, and died at his home in Trenton, New 
Jersey, June 27, 1883. He was a very young 
82 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



lad when he removed to Salem, New Jer- 
sey, and in that section his education was 
acquired. He was heir to great wealth, 
which was managed by an executor, and he 
placed it in the Bank of Maryland, at Balti- 
more, which later failed, and in the course 
of a few days, all of it was lost. The 
entire course of his life was changed by this 
failure. Instead of having wealth at his 
command, he was obliged to depend upon 
his own efforts for support, but this ap- 
peared to furnish an impulse which would 
other ivise have been lacking. At an early 
age he formed a business connection with 
"The Lyceum," at that time the most im- 
portant institution of its kind in the State. 
He wrote for the press on many subjects 
and gradually achieved success. At the age 
of twenty-one years he became the editor 
and proprietor of "The National Standard," 
and not long afterward, of "The Harri- 
sonian." These papers were financially in 
straits at the time Mr. Smith took charge 
of them, but he labored with undaunted 
courage and energy until he had cleared 
them from their difficulties, and made them 
active factors in the Harrison presidential 
campaign. He also made them the medium 
for encouraging other important measures, 
among these being the cause of manufacture 
in Salem, the erection of the lunatic asylum 
at Trenton, the abolition of imprisonment 
for debt, the more frequent and thorough 
establishment of public schools, and the 
furnishing of relief and employment to the 
poor. Temperance and morality were 
themes constantly discussed in these publi- 
cations, with very satisfactory results. The 
Whig Association of Salem v>'as called into 
being by Mr. Smith, and he was its presi- 
dent. He was one of the organizers of 
the Salem Insurance Company and the 
Building Association, becoming a director 
of the last mentioned. He was the first to 
broach the subject of a County Agricultural 
Society, and was called into office as secre- 
tary of this association. Although the com- 
munity was a Democratic one. Mr. Smith 



was honored by almost unanimous election 
to membership in the Board of Freeholders, 
and also as director. When the National 
Guard was the only military organization 
south of Trenton, he was captain in this 
body, and he served as judge-advocate of 
the Salem Brigade. He served as a mem- 
ber of the Whig County Committee for a 
period of eleven years, and the zeal and 
energy which he supported by his writings 
in "The National Standard," in favor of the 
Whig party, resulted in placing every 
branch of the State government in the hands 
of that party. In 1848 he permitted his 
name to be used as a candidate for the 
office of surrogate. He was defeated by a 
very small majority, but the vote cast for 
him was with two exceptions the largest 
ever cast for any candidate in the county. 
In 185 1 he abandoned editorial work, and 
about this time toured about six thousand 
miles in the west and northwest, later pub- 
lishing valuable statistical and other in- 
formation concerning this trip. 

He wrote and published much concern- 
ing the importance of developing the re- 
sources of West Jersey by the construc- 
tion of a railroad, and in connection with 
this idea, called a public meeting on his 
own responsibility. His efforts in this di- 
rection were opposed by the Camden & 
Amboy Railroad Company. He was nom- 
inated for the Legislature at this time, and 
while he had many and bitter opponents, 
he won the election, his vote in the Demo- 
cratic city of Salem being "twice as large 
as ever before cast for any candidate under 
any circumstances." While in the Senate 
he was assigned to membership in the com- 
mittees on education and treasurer's ac- 
counts. It was largely owing to his in- 
stnmientality that the bill to establish a 
State Normal School was reported and 
passed. Among the most important bills, 
the passage of which he advocated, were 
those against bribery at elections, and pro- 
viding employment for the poor. It is not 
possible, within the limits of this article, to 



i»3 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



discuss in detail all the benefits arising from 
the presence of Mr. Smith in the Legisla- 
ture, but the influence of the measures he 
introduced and supported, is a wide-reach- 
ing one. It was largely owing to his de- 
termined efforts that Lincoln was nominated 
to the presidency, and of the wide-spread 
and beneficial effects of that movement, 
there is no need to speak. At the outbreak 
of the rebellion, Mr. Smith considered his 
duty clearly defined. Ardent in his sup- 
port of the Union from the outset, he em- 
ployed all his personal and official influence 
in encouraging patriotism through the me- 
dium of the press. When Lincoln passed 
through Trenton on his way to Washington 
to be inaugurated, Mr. Smith was selected 
to take charge of the official delegation from 
Philadelphia, and he otherwise fully par- 
ticipated in the ceremonies at the State 
Capitol. His work in connection with the 
Civil War can best be described in the 
words of an eminent authority, who wrote : 

"On the i6th of April. 1861, Mr. Smith form- 
ally addressed a letter to Governor Olden, earn- 
estly proffering his services to the State and 
Nation for any duty whereby they could best be 
rendered available. The Governor accepted his 
offer, and promised employment. It having trans- 
pired that Fort Delaware was liable to be cap- 
tured by disloyalists. Mr. Smith was dispatched 
to Philadelphia to take such action in arousing 
the authorities as he might deem necessary. 
Through his representations, based on informa- 
tion of a reliable nature transmitted to him, the 
fort was garrisoned by the Commonwealth .\r- 
tillery and the danger averted. He also procur- 
ed tents for the unsheltered regiments through 
General Patterson, and medical and surgical 
supplies through General Wool. The following 
service was referred to by the adjutant-general 
in his annual report : Mr. Smith was hastily dis- 
patched to New York, and under extraordinary 
circumstances procured nearly twenty-five thous- 
and rounds of musket ball cartridges and one 
hundred thousand percussion caps for the four 
regiments already en route for the seat of war, 
and placed it on board the flotilla at midnight 
during the prevalence of a severe storm. The 
ammunition, transportation, etc.. were only ob- 
tained through most persistent efforts, and sole- 
ly upon his personal responsibility, at a period 

184 



when neither the New York authorities or rail- 
road companies would extend credit to the State 
He was frequently dispatched to New York. 
Philadelphia and Washington, on important 
missions, passing down the Potomac in front of 
the enemies' batteries, visiting our camps in Vir- 
ginia, and. in brief, proceeding everywhere and 
doing everything required of him. He made a 
midnight trip to Washington while the enemy 
were crossing the Potomac above that city, and 
rumors of burning bridges and Cavalry raids 
were rife along the route, and he disregarded 
warnings to leave Washington while there was 
yet time until he had faithfully performed his 
duty. His visits to the War Department were 
eminently successful, and on one occasion, as 
informed, he saved for the State seventy-five 
thousand dollars through tact and energy in ob- 
taining interviews with the Secretary of War 
at critical and seemingly impossible periods. 
These journeys were generally dernier resorts, 
and were always successful. Governor Olden, 
in expressing his acknowledgments, emphatical- 
ly remarked : 'You have performed for the 
State important service, and relieved my mind 
of great anxiety;' and again he was character- 
ized in the Executive Department as one who 
never failed. Among other services he was in- 
strumental, at the request of the Governor, in re- 
taining Hexamer's famous battery in the service 
of the State after it had resolved, and was al- 
ready striking tents, to take service in New 
York. A very brief delay, and the heroic rec- 
ord of this battery would not now form one of 
the most brilliant chapters in the military his- 
tory of the State." 

Mr. Smith was one of that class of busy 
men who, because of their activity, appear 
always to have time left for new duties and 
responsibilities. He was a member of an 
important committee of the Sanitary Fair 
in Philadelphia, of the Camden Auxiliary 
Sanitary Committee, and one of the or- 
ganizers, by appointment, of the Trenton 
branch of the New Jersey Sanitary Commis- 
sion. Governor Olden entrusted to him 
the nomination of officers for one of the 
best regiments raised in West Jersey, and 
he named all with the exception of the chap- 
lain and surgeon. His recommendations for 
other regiments were also invariably suc- 
cessful. He became commander of the 
Trenton Artillerv at a time when this was 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



the only organization of its kind in the 
State. He was the leading spirit in the 
organization of the Union League of Tren- 
ton, and was indefatigable in his activities 
in its interests, his name being the first on 
the roll of about one thousand, and at vari- 
ous times he filled almost all the offices. 
As vice-president of the State Loyal League 
he was frequently called upon to discharge 
the duties of the executive office. In con- 
nection with his work for these various as- 
sociations, it is but proper to state that his 
services were given without expectation of 
remuneration of any kind, and that even 
his traveling and other incidental expenses 
were defrayed by himself. So great was 
his patriotism and confidence in the govern- 
ment that, when affairs were at the lowest 
ebb, he invested all of his available fortune 
in government funds. Governor Olden re- 
nominated Mr. Smith, as a Union man, 
clerk of the Supreme Court, and with but 
a very few exceptions, he received the rec- 
ommendation of every man of prominence 
in the State, irrespective of political party. 
Among the duties discharged by Mr. Smith 
was that of taking charge of and entertain- 
ing Secretary of State Seward, Private Sec- 
retary Lincoln, and others of the govern- 
ment committee, on the occasion of the re- 
ception of the remains of Minister Dayton, 
upon their arrival from Europe. Immedi- 
ately after the election of November. 1867, 
Mr. Smith inaugurated a movement for 
the nomination of General Grant to the 
presidency. It was due to his efforts that 
the act was passed for compulsory educa- 
tion, and he succeeded Governor Olden as 
one of the commissioners to enlarge the 
State House. This also was an office carry- 
ing no compensation. The success of the 
Centennial Celebration in Trenton was 
ascribed largely to the personal efforts of 
Mr. Smith. 

The leisure hours of Mr. Smith were 
devoted to literary labors, and he achieved 
a reputation in this field both in this coun- 
try and in Great Britain. He was elected 

i8S 



a member of the famous Powysland His- 
torical Society of Wales, corresponding 
member of the New England Historic and 
Genealogical Society of Boston, and honor- 
ary member of the Historical Society of 
Pennsylvania. The first mentioned society 
invited him to pay them a visit, and he was 
entertained by them most royally. He was 
tendered the position of aide-de-camp by 
the governor, and was an honorary member 
of many military organizations, the soldiers 
composing these all looking upon him as a 
friend, and decorating him with their 
badges. For a considerable period of time 
he served as foreman of the grand jury of 
the United States. Two extensive tours 
were made throughout Europe, the publish- 
ed accounts of these, furnished by Mr. 
Smith, making most interesting reading, and 
he also traveled extensively in his own 
country and Canada. Mr. Smith was the 
owner of a fine private yacht, and in this he 
was in the habit of cruising along the coast 
of the United States, and thus became thor- 
oughly well acquainted with it. His taste in 
art matters was an exceptionally fine one, 
and many rare pictures adorned the walls 
of his fine home, which was rendered even 
more attractive by a well and a carefully 
selected library. For many years he was a 
member of the Protestant Episcopal Church, 
and for a long time a delegate to the Dio- 
cesan Convention. An excellent portrait of 
Mr. Smith, painted by Miss Sinnickson, of 
Philadelphia, hangs in the rotunda of the 
State Capitol at Trenton, having been pre- 
sented by his daughter. Miss Elizabeth Al- 
ford Smith. 

Mr. Smith married, in 1843. Hester A., 
a daughter of Matthew Driver, Esq., of 
Caroline county, Maryland. 



DUNHAM, Sering Potter, 

Merchant, Financier, Progressive Citizen. 

Among the prominent men of Trenton, 
New Jersey, who were actively identified 
with her business and financial interests, 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



as well as making their presence and in- 
fluence felt for good in many other direc- 
tions, was the late Sering Potter Dunham, 
president of the well known firm, S. P. 
Dunham & Company. 

The surname Dunham is derived from an 
old English place name, and is spelled in 
various ways — Denham, Donham, Down- 
ham, Dunham. The ancient coat-of-arms of 
the English Dunhams is described as fol- 
lows : Azure, on a chief indented or. a 
label gules. The arms borne by Sir John 
Dunham (1498) were quartered with those 
of Bowett, Zouche, Berge and Bellaqua. 
The family of the American immigrant can 
be traced to the very beginning of the use 
of surnames in England, Rychert Donham 
being of record in Devonshire, England, in 
1294, where his forbears had probably liv- 
ed for generations. 

John Dunham, a lineal descendant of Ry- 
chert Donham, was born in Scrooby, Eng- 
land, in 1589, and died in New England, 
March 2. 1668-69. He came to America 
on the "Mayflower,"' but on account of re- 
ligious difficulties had changed his name to 
that of Goodman. He married in Leyden, 
Holland, October 17, 1619, Abigail Wood, 
a distant relative. He was chosen deacon 
of the church in Plymouth. New England, 
in 1633. He was a useful and prominent 
citizen, and was one of the purchasers of 
the town of Dartmouth. He was a weav- 
er by trade, and a deputy to the General 
Court. He had eleven children. 

David Dunham, great-great-great-grand- 
son of John Dunham, and grandfather of 
Sering P. Dunham, purchased the homestead 
at Larger Cross Roads, more than a cen- 
tury ago, and this is now still in the posses- 
sion of the family. He married Martha 
Barclay. 

David Dunham, son of David and Mar- 
tha (Barclay) Dunham, was a farmer and 
leather tanner of Larger Cross Roads, and 
died March 15, 1893. He married Mary 
Potter, of Pottersville, New Jersey, a di- 
rect descendant of Colonel Samuel Potter, 



who received a commission for his valu- 
able service during the Revolution. 

Sering Potter Dunham, son of David 
and Mary (Potter) Dunham, was born at 
Larger Cross Roads, Somerset county, 
New Jersey, October 20, 1842. and died at 
his home. No. 186 West State street, Tren- 
ton, New Jersey, November 16, 1913. The 
common schools of his native township fur- 
nished him with a plain but substantial 
and practical education, and he commenced 
his business career at the early age of six- 
teen years. He became a clerk, at Rah- 
way. New Jersey, in the business of Wood- 
ruff & Dunham, his salary being twenty- 
five dollars the first year, fifty dollars the 
second, and one hundred dollars the third 
year, during all this period having his 
board and lodging free. His ambition and 
natural ability soon enabled him to advance 
himself, and we find the energetic young 
man opening a store for himself soon af- 
ter the Civil War. He established a store 
of his own at Bedminster, Somerset coun- 
ty. New Jersey, continuing this until he 
had an opportunity of selling it to advan- 
tage at the expiration of four years. Pot- 
tersville was the next scene of his business 
activity, remaining there two years, after 
which he was clerk for a short time in a 
business in Som'erville. Not long after- 
ward he purchased an interest in one of 
the largest dry goods stores in the place, 
the firm becoming Cox, Quick & Dunham. 
.Sixteen years were spent in Somerville, 
the business with which he was connected 
increasing largely in this time. Mr. Dun- 
ham came to Trenton. New Jersey, in Sep- 
tember, 1882. and there formed a partner- 1 
ship with John H. Scudder, the firm becom- 
ing known as Scudder & Dimham. The 
business was commenced on a small scale, 
only six clerks being employed, and at the 
end of ten years, Mr. Dunham was making 
use of the entire building, and an "L" 
through to State street. Mr. Scudder retir- 
ed in 1895, when the firm name was chang- 
ed to read S. P. Dunham & Company. Later 



186 




/.■s J/ifToncaf J'z/i. £"0- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



the firm was incorporated, Mr. Dunham be- 
coming president of the corporation ; his 
son, Edward W. Dunham, treasurer; E. 
Smith Lamson, secretary ; and John Scud- 
der Dunham, another son, a director. More 
than one hundered thousand square feet of 
floor space are now occupied by this con- 
cern, and scores of clerks are employed. 
Possessed of great executive ability, and 
of progressive ideas, Mr. Dunham was the 
organizer of many innovations. Among 
these was the early closing movement, 
which is now followed by all large estab- 
lishments, while formerly the clerks were 
obliged to stay as long as customers came 
in. Many of the employes of this business 
have spent their entire business lives there, 
and now have sons of their own, also in its 
employ. Mr. Dunham was a stockholder 
and director of the Mechanics' National 
Bank of Trenton, and served as president 
of this institution from 1891 to 1900. 

Intense patriotism was a distinguishing 
characteristic of Mr. Dunham, and in 1862 
he enlisted in Company A, Thirtieth Reg- 
iment, New Jersey Volunteer Infantry, 
and did sentinel duty at the capitol at Wash- 
ington. He lay in reserve at the battle of 
Fredericksburg, Virginia, and, having con- 
tracted typhoid fever, was sent to his home 
in 1863. He gave his political support to 
the Democratic party until the "Silver Is- 
sue" was in question, when he differed 
from it. He was a member of the Third 
Presb>i^erian Church of Trenton, and an 
elder in its since 1885. He was a Sunday 
school superintendent one term, and church 
trustee for many years. He was also an 
elder in the Second Dutch Reformed 
Church at Somerville for several terms, 
and superintendent of the Sabbath School 
there many years. He was commissioner 
to the General Assembly of the Presbyter- 
ian Church of the United States of Amer- 
ica from the New Brunswick Presbytery, 
when held at Portland, Oregon, in May, 
1892. In the interests of the Young Men's 
Christian Association, he was an equally 



187 



active worker, being a charter member, and 
for a number of years president, of the 
branch at Trenton, the present building be- 
ing erected during that time. 

Mr. Dunham married at Somerville, De- 
cember 12, 1866, Anna Laura Bergen, who 
died January 5, 1908. She was the daugh- 
ter of James and Phebe (Peterson) Ber- 
gen, and a descendant of Hans Hansen, 
who came to this country about 1660. He 
became the owner of large quantities of 
land along the shores of the Hudson river, 
the name being perpetuated in Bergen 
county, Bergen Point, Bergen Heights of 
Brooklyn, etc. Mr. and Mrs. Dunham had 
children: i. Edward Woodruff, a member 
of the firm of S. P. Dunham & Company, 
of Trenton ; married Julia Coe Silvers, of 
Cranbury, New Jersey. 2. James Henry, 
a Presbyterian clergyman, and pastor at 
Mount Holly, New Jersey ; married Mary 
MacMullin Barrows. 3. Mary Potter, mar- 
ried Francis Vaux Wilson, a member of 
the well known Philadelphia family of that 
name, a member of which was Richard 
Vaux, mayor of the city, and United States 
Minister to the Court of St. James, his de- 
scendant, Francis Vaux Wilson, being an 
artist of note. 4. John Scudder, also a mem- 
ber of the firm of S. P. Dunham & Com- 
pany. 5-6. Frederick and Elvie, died in 
infancy. 7. George Bergen, died at the age 
of sixteen years. 

An estimate of the character of Mr. 
Dunham, and the general esteem in which 
he was held, may be formed from the fol- 
lowing extracts, which were published at the 
time of his death. The Presbyterian cler- 
gyman said in part : "Mr. Dunham was our 
senior elder in point of age as well as dur- 
ation of service. He was also, it may be 
said without disparagement to his younger 
brethren, a man well equipped to stand at 
the head in all councils and work of the 
session. Nature has done much for him. 
He was possessed of a fine personal pres- 
ence ; he had a vigorous and alert mind, of 
great business capacity, and unusually well 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



equipped in every way to be what he assur- 
edly was, one of our foremost citizens. The 
cultured and balanced poise of his charac- 
ter was the fruitage, in part, of a noble 
family line. What he has thus received he 
has passed on to his children without cloud 
or stain." 

The "Trenton Gazette" said in part : 
"Business was his hobby. He was devoted 
to it whole-heartedly, and seldom it was 
that he took a vacation, though he often 
needed one. He found nothing but extreme 
pleasure in attending to his mercantile af- 
fairs, and being the possessor of rare exe- 
cutive ability, built up by honest and fair 
dealing an enormously large business. Even 
of late years, when ill health troubled him, 
Mr. Dunham would adhere to past custom 
and visit the store every day. He no more 
thought of remaining at home on a stormy 
day than he did when it was sunshiny and 
clear. It was this close application to bus- 
iness, this uncommon display of interest 
and capacity, that made Mr. Dunham what 
he was when he died — what he by all means 
deserved to be — successful ! In addition to 
his liking for his business, he was always 
fond of his many employes, all of whom 
held him in the highest esteem, and real- 
ized that their efforts to please never went 
unappreciated. Mr. Dunham was also be- 
loved by men in all walks of life, and his 
death cast sorrow over many circles." 

On the day of his funeral, all the prin- 
cipal business houses in Trenton closed 
their doors and business stopped as a mark 
of the deep respect in which he was held 
bv his fellow citizens. 



BODINE, Dr. Joseph L., 

Iieading Medical Practitioner and \l7riter. 

The success Dr. Joseph L. Bodine so 
deservedly won in his profession never un- 
duly elated him nor caused him to vary 
from the modest simplicity of his manner. 
A nature of singular sweetness, openness 
and sincerity was his. He had a profound 



knowledge of human nature, and his judg- 
1- ent was sound and unerring. As a citizen, 
:is well as in his capacity as a physician. 
Dr. Bodine won the confidence and esteem 
of all with whom he held relations. 

Jean Bodine, of Cambray, is said to have 
removed to Medis, Province of Saintonge, 
France, where his son was born. He was 
doubtless a Huguenot, and left his native 
land because of religious persecution. A 
short stay was made in Holland and in 
England, prior to coming to New York, 
where he arrived before November 3, 1677. 
It is known that he settled on Staten Island 
before 1686, and his death occurred in 1694. 

Jean Bodine, son of Jean Bodine, was 
born in France, May 9, 1645, ^^d died in 
New Jersey, after March, 1736. With his 
second wife. Esther, her parents and her 
brother, he was naturalized in London, Eng- 
land, March 21, 1682, and for a time re- 
sided at Rye, in Sussex, where two of his 
children were born. Having emigrated, we 
find him living on Staten Island at the time 
of the death of his father. May 12, 170T, 
he purchased eighty acres of land in East 
Jersey, at Charles Neck, opposite Staten 
Island. He married (first) Maria, Janu- 
ary II. 1680, daughter of Jean Crocheron, 
also an emigrant to Staten Island; (second) 
Esther, daughter of Francois and Jeanne 
Susanne Bridon. There were five children 
by each marriage. 

Francis Bodine, son of Jean and Esther 
(Bridon) Bodine. was probably bom in 
England, and died shortly after March, 
1736. Until 1726 he was a resident of 
Staten Island. He married Maria, daugh- 
ter of James and Mary (MuIIiner) Dey, 
of Staten Island, and they had at least 
three children, and probably others. 

Francis Bodine, son of Francis and 
Maria (Dey) Bodine, was born on Staten 
Island. Prior to 1745 he settled at Cran- 
bury, on the border of Middlesex county, 
Ne\v Jersey. November i, 1775, he had 
abofit thirty acres of land surveyed in 
Tranquility Swamp, on Wading river, Lit- 



i8g 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



tie Egg Harbor township, Burlington coun- 
ty, New Jersey, jind this was in the posses- 
sion of his children as late as 1820. The 
name of his first wife, by whom he had 
three children, is not known, and he mar- 
ried (second) Rachel Wilson. 

John Bodine, son of Francis Bodine and 
his first wife, was born at Cranbury, Mid- 
dlesex county. New Jersey, in 1746, and 
died at Wading river, March 26, 1826. Early 
in life he removed to Burlington county, 
where he became proprietor of the inn at 
Wading river which he conducted for forty 
years. He was a prosperous farmer and 
an extensive land owner. An ardent patriot, 
he served in the Continental army through- 
out the Revolutionary War, rising from the 
rank of private to that of captain. He mar- 
ried (first) about 1773, Mary Roundtree ; 
(second) September 16, 1790, Ann Taylor, 
who survived him. He had five children 
by the first marriage, and ten by the second. 

Stacy Bodine, son of John and Mary 
(Roundtree) Bodine, was born October 21, 
1783, and died June 26, 1867. He married 
Elizabeth Budd. 

Daniel B. Bodine, son of Stacy and Eliza- 
beth (Budd) Bodine, was born near Mount 
Holly, New Jersey, April 16, 1814, and 
died in August, 1 88 1. At an early age he 
engaged in business in Middletown, Mon- 
mouth county, New Jersey, and was very 
successful in this enterprise. He became 
identified with various financial enterprises, 
and at the time of his death was a member 
of the Board of directors of the Trenton 
Banking Company and the Trenton Savings 
Fund Society. The public aflfairs of the 
community received his earnest and consist- 
ent attention, and he became prominent in 
them after his removal to Trenton. From 
1851 to 1856 he was clerk in the Court of 
Chancery, and later was mayor of Trenton 
for two terms. His mother was a lineal 
descendant of William Budd, a brother of 
Thomas Budd, surveyor-general of West 
Jersey, and owner of a share proprietary. 
Mr. Bodine married Elizabeth Lamb. 

189 



Dr. Joseph L. Bodine, son of Daniel B. 
and Elizabeth (Lamb) Bodine, was born 
at Pemberton, Burlington county. New Jer- 
sey, June 26, 1839, and died January 2, 
1889. His elementary education was ac- 
quired in his native town, and upon his 
removal with his parents to Trenton, New 
Jersey, in 1851, he became a student at 
Trenton Academy, in preparation for en- 
trance to Princeton College. He and his 
brother, the Rev. William B. Bodine, of 
Philadelphia, were graduated from this in- 
stitution in the class of i860, both being 
among the first five of this class. Having 
decided upon the medical profession as his 
life work. Dr. Bodine took up the study 
of medicine with his uncle, the former Gor- 
ernor George Franklin Fort, and also ma- 
triculated at the University of Pennsylvania, 
from which he was graduated in the class 
of 1865 with the degree of Doctor of Medi- 
cine. An interneship of one year was spent 
at the Episcopal Hospital of Philadelphia, 
and he then commenced the active practice 
of his profession in Trenton, with which he 
was prominently identified until his death 
in the very prime of life. From the outset 
of his practice he made his mark in his 
chosen profession, and at the time of his 
death had an unusually extensive and lucra- 
tive practice, although the latter quality was 
the one he least regarded, the alleviation 
of the sufiferings of humanity being his chief 
aim. He was especially successful in the 
treatment of mental afflictions, to which he 
gave much of his time. He was frequently 
called into consultation by his colleagues, 
and was for many years chief of the staflF at 
St. Francis' Hospital, and consulting phy- 
sician to the New Jersey State Prison. His 
skill in the diagnosis of disease was so well 
recognized that he became an authority in 
this field. His discussion of medical sub- 
jects was always eagerly looked forward 
to by the State and Mercer county medical 
Societies, and he delivered numerous ad- 
dresses before the American Social Science 
Association. He was well known as a pro- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



fessional writer, being a prolific contribu- 
tor, on the subjects of insanity and the 
care of the insane, to medical journals here 
and abroad. In spite of the manifold de- 
mands made upon his time by his profes- 
sional labors. Dr. Bodine was not neglectful 
of the public affairs of the community, but 
gave them to a considerable extent his per- 
sonal attention. Appointed by Governor 
Ludlow as a member of the State Sinking 
Fund Commission, his services to the State 
were of inestimable value, and he succeeded 
in placing the fund on a sound financial 
basis. His religious affiliation was with St. 
Michael's Episcopal Church, in which he 
served as a vestryman for a considerable 
number of years. Outside of his profes- 
sional and public service. Dr. Bodine, was 
of that modest, retiring disposition which is 
sometimes met with in combination with 
qualities of the highest order of excellence. 
He was charitable to a degree, but in a most 
quiet and unostentatious manner, and none 
but the recipients of his bounty will ever 
known the extent of his gifts. 

Dr. Bodine married, October 7, 1874, 
Frances P. Davis, and is survived by two 
children: Elizabeth D. ; and Joseph L.. as- 
sistant district attorney, and member of the 
law firm of Vroom, Dickinson & Bodine. 



HOPPER. Abram C. 

Leading Bnilding Contractor. 

The late Abram G. Hopper, whose career 
was such as to warrant the trust and confi- 
dence of the business world and the regard 
of all with whom he was brought in con- 
tact, by reason of the fact that he ever con- 
ducted all transactions on the strictest prin- 
ciples of honor and integrity, was a de- 
scendant of a family which has been well 
and prominently known in the region of 
New Amsterdam and the New Netherlands 
for more than two and half centuries. 
Tliere are in America three distinct Hop- 
per families. One is of Irish descent, an- 
other came from the county of Durham, 



England, and the third, by far the most 
numerous, is of Dutch ancestry. 

Abram G. Hopper was bom November 
29, 1855, '" New York City, son of Gar- 
rett and Sarah (Hopper) Hopper. When 
he was about two years of age his parents 
removed to Oakland, settling on a farm, 
and there he was reared, attending the 
county school and acquiring a practical ed- 
ucation, which thoroughly prepared him 
for the activities of life. At the age of 
eighteen years he placed himself under the 
preceptorship of his uncle, Samuel Hopper, 
at Franklin, now Nutley, New Jersey, in 
order to learn the trade of mason, and af- 
ter mastering all the details of the same, 
in company with his brother, John, who 
was a carpenter by trade, went to Avon, 
Illinois, where his uncle, Samuel Yeomans, 
was then living. In that city Abram G. 
Hopper engaged in business on his own ac- 
count, contracting for mason work, this en- 
terprise proving successful and remunera- 
tive, and he continued along the same line 
there until the year 1879, when he came to 
Paterson, New Jersey, on a visit, and while 
there formed a partnership with his cousin, 
Jacob Steel, engaging in a contracting bus- 
iness. Both of the partners being thorough 
business men, well grounded in their par- 
ticular line, expert and enterprising, thor- 
oughly competent to cope with every ob- 
stacle in their path, the undertaking met 
with a large degree of success, in course 
of time becoming the largest in its line in 
the city of Paterson, having the contract 
for the erection of the majority of the prin- 
cipal buildings in and about Paterson, as 
well as many in other cities and States. 
The following is a list of the most noted: 
The Carnegie Laboratory of Engineering 
at Stevens Institute, Hoboken, New Jer- 
sey : Hopper Building in Paterson ; Dan- I 
forth Public Library ; Arnold building ; 
Citizens' Trust Company building ; Cohen 
building: the News Printing and Publish- 
ing Company building; Schwarzschild & 
Sulzberger Company building; Ball build- 



190 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ing; Nathan building; Albert Tint build- 
ing; Williams building; Kinsella building; 
Ulrich building; Simon building; many of 
the public school and other public build- 
ings ; Isaac A. Hall's mills ; F. Harding & 
Sons' factory; Paterson Gas Office; Young 
Men's Christian Association building ; Mo- 
saic Hall ; Park Avenue Baptist Church ; 
Western Methodist Episcopal Church ; Riv- 
erside Reformed Church ; and the resi- 
dences of Dr. O'Donnell, J. Leville Greggs, 
J. H. Steel and Abram G. Hiopper. These 
buildings, which rank among the best in 
Paterson, stand as a monument to the skill 
and ability of the firm of which Mr. Hop- 
per was a member. The plant and lumber 
yards were located at Nos. 46-48 North 
Second street, Paterson, and the name of 
Mr. Hopper was well and favorably known 
in business circles for three decades. He 
was a man capable of managing extensive 
business interests, conducted his affairs on 
terms that were fair alike to employer and 
employee, and thus avoided troubles so 
common in these days. He was systematic 
and methodical in the conduct of his busi- 
ness, and this orderly precision was one of 
the features in the prosperity that attended 
his well-directed efforts. As the years pass- 
ed the business grew to mammoth propor- 
tions, and ranked among the leading and 
representative industries of Paterson. For 
many years he also operated a brick yard, 
being the proprietor of the same at the 
time of his death, which was a remunera- 
tive source of income. 

Mr. Hopper was courteous, genial and 
obliging, and these qualities rendered him 
very popular, so that his circle of friends 
was very extensive. He took a keen inter- 
est in local affairs, and was elected on the 
Democratic ticket to the office of freehold- 
er, in which capacity he served for one 
term, performing his duties satisfactorily. 
He was a director of the Paterson Sanitary 
Company, organized for the purpose of re- 
moving the garbage of Paterson, and for 

191 



about five years Mr. Hopper served as su- 
perintendent of the same, his tenure of of- 
fice being noted for efficiency and capabili- 
ty. He was a member of the Paterson Bus- 
iness Men's Association, in which he took 
an active interest. He was a constant at- 
tendant of the Second Reformed Church, 
for thirty years and finally became a mem- 
ber ; a member of the Order of Free and 
Accepted Masons, Mason's Union, and the 
Royal Arcanum. He was a great lover of 
horses, of which he was an excellent judge, 
being considered an authority on the sub- 
ject, and he was the possessor of fine driv- 
ing teams which were often seen in Pater- 
son and vicinity. 

Mr. Hopper married, April 28, 1880, 
Sarah Ann Pulis, of Ramsey, New Jersey, 
a daughter of William and Maria (Mow- 
erson) Pulis. Children: Maria L., who 
became the wife of Edward Kuhl Conine, 
of Trenton, New Jersey ; Sarah, deceased ; 
Anna May, deceased ; Garrett, deceased ; 
Serena Beatrice; Annetta Roseland; 
Abram G. Jr. ; Emerald Jacob. Mr. Hop- 
per took an unusual interest in his home 
and family, spending all his leisure time 
there, and was ever a loving husband, af- 
fectionate father, ever thoughtful and con- 
siderate of the comfort of those dependent 
upon him. Mr. Hopper died at his home 
in Paterson, January 5, 1910, and later his 
widow sold his business interest to his 
partner, Mr. Steel. 

Such is the brief review of the career of 
one who achieved not only honorable suc- 
cess and high standing among men, but 
whose entire life was irreproachably cor- 
rect, so that his character was blameless. 
His life record demonstrated the fact that 
success depends not upon circumstances or 
environment, but upon the man, and the 
prosperous citizens are those who are able 
to recognize and improve their opportuni- 
ties, as was the case with the late Mr. Hop- 
per. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



BENNETT, David Horton, 

Manufacturer, Enterprising Citizen, 

From the beginning of his active life un- 
til his death. David Horton Bennett was 
associated with glass manufacture, the last 
thirty years of his life being passed as senior 
member of the firm of G. S. Bennett Com- 
pany, manufacturers of window glass and 
paints, located at No. 112 and 114 North 
Ninth street. He was a native of New 
Jersey, and Collingswood, Camden county, 
was his home at the time of his death, al- 
though Philadelphia had long been the scene 
of his business activity. Business associates 
of Philadelphia and intimates in social and 
civic life in Collingswood remember him as 
a Christian gentleman of high ideals and 
worthy life, a man who lived for the best 
and in whom there was no intentional fault. 
David Horton Bennett was a son of Wil- 
liam and Eliza ( Pheifer ) Bennett ; his uncle, 
Levi Pheifer. a former sheriff of Camden 
county, and. with Isaac Collings and Mr. 
Gibbs, one of the founders of the Collings- 
wood Methodist Episcopal Church. 

David Horton Bennett was born in Cum- 
berland, Cumberland county, New Jersey, 
February 5, 1848, and when he was five 
years old was taken by his parents to Wins- 
low, New Jersey, where he attended the 
public schools. At the completion of his 
studies he became a glass blower, learning 
this trade under Andrew K. Hay, and from 
this time he was interested in the manu- 
facture and marketing of glass. About 
1883 Mr. Bennett and his eldest son George 
founded the G. S. Bennett Company, manu- 
facturers of window glass and paints and 
dealers in painters' supplies, their place of 
business at No. 112 and 114 North Ninth 
street. After a number of years George 
Bennett retired from this line, his place in 
the firm being taken by Mr. Bennett's 
youngest son Frank, who was associated 
with his father until the latter's death and 
who now continues the business. Mr. Ben- 
nett, in connection with his Philadelphia 



interests, operated a glass manufacturing 
plant at Millville, New Jersey, also head- 
ing a third enterprise at Spring City, New 
Jersey, the last organized as a stock com- 
pany, of which he was president. Upright 
integrity and unswerving devotion to fair 
dealing were the leading characteristics of 
his daily business transactions, and in his 
long career he achieved a reputation which 
only honor and the strictest of probity can 
gain. His responsibilities were borne faith- 
fully and capably, and in any enterprise 
with which he was connected his was a 
leading mind and a willing hand. 

Mr. Bennett was a member of the Metho- 
dist Episcopal Church, and supported the 
Republican party with his vote, although 
never a candidate for or an occupant of 
official position. He was allied with every 
progressive and uplifting movement in his 
town, and with constructive public spirit 
worked for its advancement and improve- 
ment. 

He married Anna M. Abel, of Hammon- 
ton. New Jersey, daughter of John and 
Elizabeth (Wells) Abel, and had chil- 
dren : George S., married Annie Ber- 
ger : Laura G., married Robert Pond ; 
Harry, married Margaret Simpler ; Frank, 
married Clara McNelly ; and Lillian K., 
unmarried. Mrs. Bennett survives her hus- 
band and resides in Collingswood, New Jer- 
sey. 



DELP, James A. H., 

Manufacturer, Public Official. 

A man of action, of business talents and 
untiring energy, of actual achievements 
that have advanced the wealth and prosper- 
ity of the community, of undoubted public 
spirit, is a very fair description of the late 
James A. H. Delp, for many years of 
Trenton, New Jersey. He was prominent 
among the business men of Trenton who 
contributed energy and ability of a high 
order to the development of the city, and 
his manufacturing transactions showed that 



192 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



faculty of business imagination which is 
at the back of all large operations of a 
business nature. Not content with the 
humdrum methods of the conservative man- 
ufacturer, he organized schemes that put 
his work on a level with business cam- 
paigns of the first order. The propor- 
tionate increase in the volume of business 
transacted was phenomenal. In addition to 
being a shrewd and successful man of busi- 
ness, Mr. Delp acquired an honorable repu- 
tation as a citizen of much public spirit, 
and enjoyed the esteem and confidence of 
all with whom he had relations. While 
his family was a comparatively new one 
in the State of New Jersey, it had long 
been resident in America. 

The pioneer ancestor of the family was 
George Delp, who came to this country 
from Rotterdam, in the ship "Thistle," and 
arrived at Philadelphia. October 28, 1738. 
He located in Franconia township, now 
Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, became 
a large land owner there, and also acquired 
much property in Hilltown township, Bucks 
county, Pennsylvania. He and a number of 
his descendants lie buried in an old bury- 
ing ground known as "Delp's Grave Yard," 
in the northwestern part of Franconia 
township. George Delp, son of the pioneer, 
located in Hilltown township. George 
Delp, son of the second George Delp, was 
born in Hilltown township, removed to 
Bedminster Township in 1806. and died 
there. January i, 1830. He married Mar- 
garet Eydem and had five children. George 
Delp, in all probability a nephew of the 
third George Delp, and a descendant in 
the fourth generation from the pioneer, 
George Delp, was of Bucks county, Penn- 
sylvania, where he married Elizabeth Spece. 

James A. H. Delp, son of George and 
Elizabeth (Spece) Delp, was born at Chal- 
font, Bucks county, Pennsylvania, Decem- 
ber 16, 1845, 3nd died at his home in Tren- 
ton, New Jersey, suddenly, February 9, 
1915. He acquired a sound, practical edu- 
cation in his native town, and then removed 

II— 13 



to Trenton with his parents, with which 
city his interests were identified until his 
death. There he learned his trade under 
the auspices of the late Cornelius Vansant, 
whose place of business was located on the 
present site of Kolb's bakery. Beginning 
the manufacture of farming implements on 
a small scale, ]\Ir. Delp gradually enlarged 
his business operations, until his concern 
was one of the most important in this line 
in the section, and added to it the business 
of a contractor, in which he was equally 
successful. For a period of more than forty 
years he manufactured farming implements 
and pumps, during the greater part of this 
time being located at No. 335 Pennington 
avenue. But it was not alone in the busi- 
ness world that Mr. Delp established a 
reputation for himself. The public affairs 
of the community were given his deep and 
serious attention, greatly to the benefit of 
those living in it. As a consistent member 
of the Republican party, he served three 
terms in the common council of the city, 
his election being practically unanimous, as 
the Democratic party would nominate no 
candidate to oppose him, ample testimony 
to the esteem in which he was held by all. 
During his second term he served as a mem- 
ber of the committees on the poor, city 
hall, board of trade and parks. Many years 
ago he was a member of the county com- 
mittee, and was largely instrumental in hav- 
ing a part of Ewing township annexed to 
Trenton, thus adding to the area and im- 
portance of the city. He was appointed 
delegate to the National Rivers and Har- 
bors Congress held in Washington, District 
of Columbia, December 3-4-5, 1913. but 
business reasons prevented his participa- 
tion in these meetings. Philanthropic and 
charitable to a degree, Mr. Delp did not 
confine his liberal donations to charitable 
institutions, but his private generosity was 
of so unostentatious a nature, that it was 
but rarely that any save the recipients of 
his bounty, knew of it. Only the large 
number of mourners of the poorer class 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



who attended his funeral services spoke 
eloquently of his charity. The Lutheran 
church is greatly indebted to the liberality 
of Mr. Delp. For many years he was a 
member of Christ Church, and was active 
in its interests. Later, when Grace Church, 
at Hillcrest, a suburb of Trenton, was or- 
ganized, in which proceeding Mr. Delp was 
an important factor, Mr. Delp affiliated with 
that, for a long time gave his services in 
the responsible office of superintendent of 
the Sunday school. Every pastor who came 
to Trenton found in him a liberal supporter 
and a friend on whom he could rely in 
every way. While Mr. Delp was a well 
known figure in the social life of the city. 
as befitted a man of his means and in- 
fluence, he found his chief source of pleas- 
ure in the home circle, and in the society 
of a few chosen friends. Rarely was any 
of his leisure time spent away from home. 
Mr. Delp married Anne E. Biddle, also 
a native of Bucks county, Pennsylvania. 
who survives him with their children : Mrs. 
W. A. Lebernight, Mrs. U. E. Apple, of 
Red Lion; Frances C. and Hiram A., of 
Trenton. Four brothers and three sisters of 
Mr. Delp are also living. 



ROW, James W., 

Prominent Bank Official. 

James W. Row. late of Paterson, New 
Jersey, was one of those men whose value 
to the community is hardly to be gauged 
by the positions they hold or the offices in 
which they have served. The weight and 
force of a fine example is of a benefit to 
a community not to be estimated in figures, 
nor set forth exactly in words, and to this 
class of men belonged the late James W. 
Row. He was a son of William Row, of 
the firm of Daggers & Row, bobbin mak- 
ers, well known in their day in Paterson. 

James W. Row was born in Paterson, 

■New Jersey, September 25, 1850, and died 

May 16, 191 3. His earlier education was 

'acquired in the public schools of his native 

I 



city, where he displayed unusual ability in 
all mathematical studies, and this was sup- 
plemented by a comprehensive course at the 
Bryant & Stratton Business College in New 
York City. Upon the completion of his 
education he obtained a position with the 
firm of Valentine & Company, in New 
York City, having become an expert ac- 
countant. His next field of activity was in 
the office of the clerk of Passaic county. 
New Jersey, which position he held until 
he accepted the position of bookkeeper in 
the Second National Bank of Paterson in 
187 1. It was not long before he succeed- 
ed David Barnet as cashier in this institu- 
tion, an office he filled with ability for more 
than fifteen years. When he retired from 
this position in March. 1891. the Directors 
of the bank presented him with a handsome 
silver service. While Mr. Row was cashier, 
the other ofificers of the bank were : James 
Jackson, president ; F. C. Van Dyk, vice- 
president : William D. Blauvelt, assistant 
cashier. The bank had been established by 
George M. Simpson and others as the Pas- 
saic County Bank, in 1865. It passed into the 
hands of James Jackson and others in 1871, 
and was reorganized as the Passaic County 
National Bank. In 1874 Congress passed 
an act making it the Second National Bank 
of Paterson. 

As an attendant of the Baptist church, 
Mr. Row was a libera! contributor to its 
support, as, indeed, he was also to numer- 
ous charitable undertakings. He never as- 
pired to public office, but gave his staunch J 
support to the Republican party. He was ' 
of an intensely patriotic nature, and was 
one of the original members of the Phelps 
Guards of Paterson. He was a member of 
Monitor Lodge, No. 219, Independent Or- 
der of Odd Fellows, had held all the chairs 
in this order, and was always active in its 
service. 

Mr. Row married. September 24, 1873, 
Sophia Dougherty, a daughter of Joseph 
and Caroline (Spear) Dougherty, and a 
descendant of an old and wealthy family 



94 






^^^^^^ny^^^ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



of Paterson. Children : Martha, who mar- 
ried George M. Rusling, and has two chil- 
dren : Thelma and Earl ; William, a mer- 
chant in Paterson ; Joseph D., cashier of 
the Public Service Company at Passaic, 
New Jersey. Mrs. Row still lives at No. 
269 Park avenue, Paterson. 

Mr. Row had a cheerful, friendly dis- 
position, and a finely developed character. 
He had gained an enviable position, and 
had implanted himself firmly in all that was 
best in business, in civic and in religious 
matters. His death deprived many inter- 
ests of a potent factor for good, and his 
associates and friends of a strong and lov- 
ing character. 



MELLSOP, John, 

liCadlng Importer, Ideal Citizen. 

In a long life of eighty-five years, John 
Mellsop, long a prominent tea importer of 
Philadelphia, completed the cycle of condi- 
tions and experiences that attend the 
achievement of fortune and position from 
humble estate. Coming to the United States 
from Ireland, his birthplace, in his youth, 
his only assets strong health and physical 
vigor, in Philadelphia he rose to important 
place in the tea trade, and for many years 
was one of the two heads of the firm of 
James A. Aull & Company. With Mr. 
Aull he retired from business in his later 
years, took up his residence in Haddonfield, 
New Jersey, and there passed his remain- 
ing years. He took with him to the quiet 
of his rural home the regard and respect of 
his business associates, gained through years 
of upright and honorable transactions. 

John Mellsop, of Scotch Irish ancestry, 
was born at Belfast, Londonderry county, 
Ireland, December 9, 1827, son of Charles 
and Eliza (Bryson) Mellsop. His father, 
Charles Mellsop, died January 2, 1835, his 
mother, whom Charles Mellsop married 
November 3. 1820, dying March 8, 1832. 
John Mellsop attended the public schools 
of the county of his birth until his fifteenth 

195 



year, when he entered upon an apprentice- 
ship with Hugh and Thomas Bellas, dealers 
in hardware, his indenture papers calling 
for five years service. This term he com- 
pleted, but immediately afterward put into 
action a plan he had formulated in that 
time, immigration to the United States. 
Arriving in Philadelphia after a long sail 
of several months, he at once sought work. 
The impulse that drove him from his native 
land was one of restless ambition that saw 
no opportunity for gratification in Ireland, 
and when on American shores he accepted 
the first position that was open to him, that 
of porter in a large tea importing house. 
His strength and agility were the qualifica- 
tions that won him this position, but it so 
chanced that he had immediately found the 
field in which he was destined to continue. 

Faithfulness and industry found their 
due reward in sucessive promotions, and 
his close attention and devotion to the in- 
terests of the house caused those in au- 
thority above him to repose in him unbound- 
ed confidence and to place upon his shoul- 
ders weighty responsibility. Admission to 
the firm was at length offered him, the title 
of the concern, which had formerly been 
Qark & Aull, then becoming James A. Aull 
& Company. As partner Mr. Mellsop exert- 
ed even greater efforts for the success and 
prosperity of the business than he had put 
forth as trusted employee, and for nearly 
half a century the house of James A. Aull 
& Company held a position of leadership 
in the tea importing trade in Philadelphia. 
The business, located on South Front street, 
was dissolved in the height of its success- 
ful existence, when Mr. Aull and Mr. Mell- 
sop felt that the cares of its management 
were too weighty for their increasing years. 

A resident of Philadelphia for the greater 
part of his life, Mr. Mellsop made the at- 
tractions of his retirement complete by his 
residence in the beautiful and historic town 
of Haddonfield, New Jersey, a short dis- 
tance across the Delaware from the scene 
of his life's activities. He was a Presby- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



terian in religious belief, and throughout 
his entire life took a worker's part in that 
denomination. For a number of years he 
served the Fourth Presbyterian Church of 
Philadelphia as elder, and was long con- 
nected with its Sunday school in the ca- 
pacity of superintendent. In Haddonfield 
he became affiliated with the First Church. 
He supported church organizations with 
his means and services, and in a quiet and 
unostentatious manner gave liberally to 
many charities. His responsibilities to- 
ward his fellow men, and particularly to- 
ward those to whom fortune had been less 
kind than to him, were met in a manly and 
sympathetic manner. He died, February 
13, 1912, as he had lived, a Christian gentle- 
man. 

John Mellsop married Sophia Cunning- 
ham, born in Ireland, who came to the 
United States shortly after his arrival. They 
were the parents of one daughter, Elizabeth 
Anne, who married the late Charles Jordan, 
of Philadelphia, and now resides in Had- 
donfield, the mother of two daughters, Ethel 
and Hazel. 



BREAKENRIDGE, John H., 

Man of Large Affairs. 

The name of John H. Breakenridge will 
be remembered as typical of that high or- 
der of citizenship the members of which, 
as a class, are, perhaps, the most valuable 
section of the community, the citizenship 
which, while taking an active interest in all 
matters of the common weal, social, finan- 
cial and political, and participating in the 
active life of the world as far as private 
duties demand, yet prefers to remain aloof 
from the contaminating influences of pub- 
lic life, content to impress itself upon the 
environment through a judicious but firm 
expression of opinion, and a consistent ad- 
herence to its own ideals of virtue and hon- 
or. In the case of Mr. Breakenridge, the 
Republican party, with which he was affil- 
iated, often pressed warmly upon him many 



of the offices within its gift, yet not less 
frequently did he refuse the proffered dis- 
tinction. 

Mr. Breakenridge was a native of New 
York City, where he was born November 
12, 1862, a son of Andrew and Elizabeth 
Taylor Breakenridge of that city, yet his 
life was nevertheless identified with New- 
ark, the city of his adoption, where he liv- 
ed and carried on his business, and with 
whose social life he was associated. When 
he was still a little child, his father moved 
to the latter place, and here, in the public 
schools of the region, he gained his edu- 
cation. When the time came for forming 
business connections, Mr. Breakenridge 
entered the employ of the great Lister 
Chemical Works, where he gained such a 
reputation for probity and business acu- 
men that he later was chosen manager of 
the huge Lister estate, a position he held 
for many years. On March 20, 1889, he 
formed a partnership in real estate and in- 
surance with Mr. Halsey Tichenor, and 
this connection continued until the time of 
his death. From the start, the firm was i 
eminently successful and later grew to be 
one of the wealthiest of its kind in the city. 

Mr. Breakenridge was married to Miss 
Emily Wood, a daughter of Isaac and 
Katherine (Mattershead) Wood, and their 
union was blessed with one son, John H. 
Breakenridge, born December 27, 1892, who 
now is grown to early manhood. 

The great variety of Mr. Breakenridge's 
activities and interests is nowhere better 
evidenced than in a recital of the various 
organizations of which he was a member. 
It has already been mentioned that he was 
a Republican of sufficient prominence to 
be frequently urged to hold office. He was 
also a member of the Newark Board of 
Trade, a member of Trinity Church, a trus- , 
tee of St. Barnabas Hospital and a mem- ^ 
ber of the Baltusrol and Forest Hill Golf 
clubs. 

The death of Mr. Breakenridge occurred 
on February 20, 1907, when he was but 



196 



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CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



forty-five years old, in the midst of a 
career, which, already successful, gave 
ample promise of increasing usefulness and 
influence. He left a name which will not 
cease to be remembered with affection by 
his friends and with respect by the whole 
community. 



LAMBERT, George Henry, 

Civil War Veteran, Enterprising Citizen. 

In the death of George Henry Lambert, 
brevet major of L^nited States Volunteers, 
the city of New Brunswick, New Jersey, 
lost one of its most devoted citizens, and 
the community in general an esteemed and 
honored fellow worker. He was a son of 
George and Caroline (Haskell) Lambert, 
the former born in Dublin, April 9. 1809, 
the latter born in Newbury, June 26. 1808, 
died July 2, 1839. The Lambert family is 
a very ancient one, and originated as fol- 
lows : 

The name was formerly spelled Lom- 
bard, and some branches still retain this 
form. The earliest accounts of the Lom- 
bards indicate that they were a roving clan 
from Scandinavia ( Norway ) . that they 
settled and lived for a time in Vindili (in 
Germany), until, attracted by the fine plains 
of Modena, they quit their mountain fast- 
nesses, and took possession of and found- 
ed one of the most powerful states in 
Italy. The significance of the name Lom- 
bard in their language was "long beard." as 
history informs us that the members of this 
clan parted their hair and suffered it to 
grow to whatever length it might attain. 
From this circumstance the ancient state 
in which they established themselves took 
its name. When William the Conqueror in- 
vaded England, he took with him Rodolph 
de Lambert, as his armor bearer or knight 
at arms. His name appears to indicate that 
his family was from Lombardy, as the "de" 
signifies "from" or "of." It appears by 
English heraldry that Rodolph de Lambert 
had a family in Normandy prior to going 



into England. "Of this ancient family of 
Norman-French extraction, one branch set- 
tled in Bologna in Italy, and has always 
been considered one of the most illustrious 
in that place. Cardinal Lambertini of this 
family was elected Bishop of Rome, 1730, 
and took the title of Benedict XIV. He 
claims relationship with the family of the 
Earl of Craven, whose descent is traced 
from Rodolph de Lambert, who went to 
England with William the Conqueror." 
Rodolph de Lambert left one son, Hugh, 
and from him are descended all of the sur- 
name in England and North America. 
Hugh, had by his wife, Matilda, Sir Wil- 
liam, his heir, who married Gundred, 
daughter of the Earl of Warren and Sur- 
rey, by Gundred, fourth daughter of Wil- 
liam the Conqueror, and widow of Robert 
de Bellamont, Earl of Warwick. By her 
he had a son, Henry, standard bearer to 
Henry II. He married Alice, sister of Wil- 
liam Manderville, Earl of Essex. He had 
a son, John, who settled in Skipton, in 
York, and who had two sons. Sir Edmund 
and Thomas, and from these there descend- 
ed many. 

George Henry Lambert was born in 
Newburyport, Massachusetts, July 14, 
1837, and died at his home in New Bruns- 
wick, New Jersey, February 191, 19 10. His 
education was a liberal one, and was ac- 
quired in schools in his native town, and 
in Cambridge, Massachusetts. In the early 
seventies he removed to New Brunswick, 
New Jersey, where he became greatly in- 
terested in farming operations for some 
time. In connection with this line of indus- 
try he became the secretary of the Mid- 
dlesex Farmers' Qub, in which oflfice he 
rendered excellent service. Subsequently 
he was a member of the staff of the "Home 
News" for a number of years, and finally 
became associated with the Janeway & Car- 
penter Company, manufacturers of wall 
paper, as secretary of the corporation, and 
was the incumbent of this office at the time 
of his death, having held it for many years. 



197 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



He was a devout and consistent member of 
Christ Episcopal Church of New Bruns- 
wick. Mr. Lambert married, December 
lO, 1900, Antonia, a daughter of Gustavus 
and Emma (HaufTbauer) Fischer. He had 
no children. The military career of Brevet 
Major Lambert is an mteresting one, and 
is given in the words of the Report of the 
Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the 
United States, in which organization he 
took a deep interest, and rarely failed to 
attend its meetings : 

"George H. Lambert was appointed from civil 
life a first lieutenant in the ii6th United States 
Infantry, and was mustered into service as such 
August 14, 1864, at Camp Nelson, Kentucky. 
During September and October of 1864 he took 
part with his company and three other com- 
panies of his regiment, in the expedition under 
General Burbridge. which sought to destroy the 
Confederate salt works in Southwest Virginia, 
and the East Tennessee & Virginia railroad. 
Upon the return of his command to Camp Nel- 
son, it was ordered to rejoin the regiment which 
it did at Chapin's Farm, Virginia, in front of 
Richmond, early in November, 1864, and became 
a part of the 10th Army Corps. Upon the or- 
ganization of the 25th Army Corps, the Ii6th 
U. S. C. Infantry became a part of the Second 
Division of this corps, and was included in the 
Army of the James. Lieutenant Lambert serv- 
ed with his regiment in the siege of Richmond 
until March 25. 1865 : was with it in the move- 
ment of part of the Army of the James to the 
vicinity of Hatcher's Run, Virginia, on the left 
of the ,\rmy of the Potomac ; took part in the 
capture of the outer defences of Petersburg, 
April 3rd, and then, under Sheridan and Ord, 
took up the rapid pursuit of Lee, which ended 
in his surrender at Appomattox Court House, 
on April 9, 1865. On April 8th. his regiment 
made a march of forty-seven miles and halted 
at one o'clock in the morning of .■Xpril pth about 
three miles from Appomatto.x Court House. In 
the early morning of April gth. General Gordon, 
commanding the Confederate advance, sought 
to move out of Appomattox Court House 
toward Lynchburg, when he soon encountered 
out Cavalry and the Infantry Divisions of the 
24th and 25th Corps were sent forward on the 
double quick to meet him and stop his advance, 
which they soon did, and the surrender of Gen- 
eral Lee and his army followed soon thereafter. 
On April nth the regiment began its re- 

I9S 



turn march to City Point, Virginia, where it re- 
mained until May 26th, when it embarked with 
the rest of the 25th Army Corps for Texas and 
disembarked at Brazos Santiago, '1 exas, June 23, 

1865. Lieutenant Lambert was promoted to cap- 
tain. May 22, 1865, and on July 6th was assign- 
ed to the command of Company D of his reg- 
iment. He served with it at Roma and White's 
Ranch, Texas, until September, 1866, and at 
New Orleans, Louisianna, from September 29, 

1866, until his regiment was mustered out of 
service at New Orleans, January 17, 1867. He 
was breveted major for faithful and meritor- 
ious services." 



BARRETT, Col. Michael T., 

ZoLvryeT, Financier. Legislator. 

It cannot be denied that the members of 
the legal fraternity are more prominent ac- 
tors in public affairs than any other class 
of the community, this being but the 
natural result of causes which are mani- 
fest and require no explanation. The abil- 
ity and training which qualify a man to 
practice law also qualify him in many re- 
spects for duties which are outside the 
strict path of his profession, and which 
touch the general interests of society. Hav- 
ing held marked precedence among the 
members of the bar in New Jersey, was the 
late Ex-State Senator Michael T. Barrett, 
of Newark, who was distinguished for 
mental clearness and vigor and for high 
standards of professional honor. He was a 
son of Timothy Barrett, a hatter by trade, 
and one of the pioneer Catholic settlers in 
New Jersey. 

Michael T. Barrett was born .August 9, 
1856, on the Barrett homestead, which is 
now in Woodside township, but was at that 
time a part of Belleville. His death oc- 
curred at his summer home at Elberon, 
New Jersey, June 7, 1914, after an illness 
of about two years' duration. His elemen- 
tary education was obtained in a school in 
Belleville, and he then became a pupil in 
St. Patrick's Cathedral School, then known 
as the Christian Brothers' School. This 
was located several miles from the home 



I 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



of Mr. Barrett, and he walked this distance 
every day in the company of several 
friends, among them being Judge Thomas 
J. Lintott. Upon leaving this institution, 
Mr. Barrett matriculated at St. Benedict's 
College, and when he had finished his stud- 
ies there, entered a broker's office, where 
he was busied for a period of five years, 
during which time he utilized all his spare 
moments in broad and diversified reading. 
Having decided that he was best fitted for 
legal work he engaged in the study of law 
with the earnestness which characterized 
all he undertook, and was admitted to prac- 
tice at the bar in 1879. During his earlier 
years as an attorney he was obliged to en- 
counter the difficulties usually in store for 
beginners in this field who are without in- 
fluence, but his ambition and indomitable 
energy overcame all obstacles, and gradu- 
ally success came to him. For more than 
thirty years he was the town counsel of 
Harrison, being still in practice in this of- 
fice at the time of his death, and during 
this long period of time had kept the town 
free from litigation. As a mark of appre- 
ciation of these services, the town council 
had on several occasions wished to increase 
his salary, but Mr. Barrett had consistently 
refufed. He was the counsel for the 
United States Brewing Association, and in 
this capacity went to England and sold sev- 
eral millions of dollars worth of association 
stock control to a British syndicate. He 
was counsel and director of the German 
Savings Bank of Newark, for twenty-five 
years counsel of the Belleville Building and 
Loan Association, and counsel for the fol- 
lowing corporations individually : Gott- 
fried Krueger Brewing Company, Peter 
Hauck & Company, the Home Brewing 
Company, the Essex Brewing Company, 
Lyons' Brewery, Christian Feigenspan, In- 
corporated, Union Brewing Company, and 
the Eagle Brewing Company. 

In 1886 Mr. Barrett was elected to the 
State Assembly from what was at that 
time the Fifth District, receiving a plurali- 



ty of 437. The following year he was a 
Democratic candidate for the State Senate, 
but was defeated by a Republican, plurali- 
ty of 1029. In 1890 he was again the Dem- 
ocratic candidate for the State Senate, was 
elected by a majority of 1961, being the 
first Democrat to be elected to that office 
in thirty years. Upon the expiration of 
his term of office he was renominated, but 
the panic which swamped the Democratic 
party in 1893 caused his defeat. During 
his term as State Senator, Mr. Barrett 
served on many important committees ap.d, 
when Governor Abbett commenced his sec- 
ond term of office, he at once appointed 
Mr. Barrett a member of his personal statY, 
with the honorary rank of colonel. When 
(jovernor Werts entered upon the duties 
of his office, he conferred a similar ap- 
pointment and rank upon Air. Barrett. For 
the sixteen years that the Democratic party 
was out of power, Mr. Barrett devoted his 
time and attention wholly to his profession- 
al work. Governor John Franklin Fort 
appointed him a trustee of the State Re- 
formatory at Rahway, he was reappointed 
by Governor Woodrow Wilson, and his 
term of office would have expired in 1916. 

He married, in 1883, Catherine, a daugh- 
ter of Peter Hauck, Sr., the well known 
brewer of Harrison. They had one son : 
Hugh C, who had been associatd with his 
father as an attorney. Mr. Barrett was al- 
so survived by a sister. Mrs. John Wade', 
of Harrison. 

The law offices of Mr. Barrett had al- 
ways been located in the old Kinney build- 
ing, and he took other offices elsewhere 
only long enough to permit the new Kin- 
ney building to be erected, when he return- 
ed to that location. The death of Mr. Bar- 
rett was a great shock in all circles in the 
city, although it had been known that he 
was a sufferer for at least two years. His 
was a nature of such courage and deter- 
mination that he fought illness inch by inch, 
long after many a man might have suc- 
cumbed. Through all the varied responsi- 



199 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



bilities of life he acquitted himself with 
dignity, fidehty and honor, winning the ap- 
probation and esteem of opponents as well 
as friends. Eminently democratic in his 
manners and associations, he was cool, cal- 
culating and safe in all he undertook, a 
man of strong and clear convictions, the 
result of independent thought and careful 
study. His culture and refinement, coupled 
with his genial manners and the warmth of 
his attachment toward friends, secured for 
him a high place in the affection and es- 
teem of his circle of acquaintance. His 
heart was ever in sympathy with the sor- 
rows of others, and his hand ready to con- 
tribute to the alleviation of distress. He 
was a plain man whom prosperity had not 
elated, and who looked with pride to his 
early life with its hardships and struggles. 
He labored, and not in vain, for the wel- 
fare of the city in which he resided. 



Mcpherson, John Roderick, 
Financier, Iiegislator, 

John Roderick McPherson was bom 
May 9, 1833, in York, Livingston county. 
New York, of pure Scotch parentage. His 
grandfather, James McPherson, had come 
from Culloden, Scotland, in 1801. and set- 
tled in Delhi, New York, and his father, 
Donald McPherson. married Jean Calder, 
whose parents had also come from Scot- 
land. 

Mr. McPherson gained his education in 
the public schools and later in the Geneseo 
Academy. He became interested in stock 
raising and, upon graduating from this in- 
stitution, he took up the same as a business 
and engaged in it successfully until his 
twenty-sixth year. He then removed to 
Jersey City (then Hudson City) and fol- 
lowing up his interest, became a dealer in 
cattle, an important industry of the place. 
In that city, in 1863-4, he constructed the 
city stock yards, of which he became part 
owner. He also designed and built the 
enormous stock yards and abattoir at Har- 

200 



simus Cove, New Jersey, for many years 
the finest in existence. These great yards 
cover an area of twenty-two acres, over 
which entire region the tide ebbs and flows. 
There is storage capacity here for seven 
thousand head of cattle and twenty thous- 
and sheep, and a slaughtering capacity of 
two thousand cattle and ten thousand sheep 
daily. Mr. McPherson was keenly alive to 
the abuses existing at that time in the trans- 
portation and storage of cattle, and it was 
to remedy these that his inventive genius 
and resources were called into play. Be- 
sides the improved yards and abattoirs 
which he devised, and which revolutioniz- 
ed these constructions, he also invented a 
new form of stock car in which it was pos- 
sible to feed and water the animals en 
route, and which have now come into prac- 
tically universal use. Mr. McPherson be- 
came in course of time wealthy from his 
various enterprises, and his probity and 
business acumen brought his services into 
great demand, so that he served upon vari- 
ous boards and committees in connection 
with many business concerns. He found- 
ed the Peoples' Gas Light Company of 
Hudson City, and served as the first pres- 
ident for a number of years. He was very 
active in politics also and was a member 
of the board of aldermen of Hudson City 
from 1863 to 1869, and president of that 
body for the last three years. In 1872 he 
was elected on the Democratic ticket to the 
State Legislature, an office he held for three 
years. During this time he took a strong 
stand against the undue encroachments of 
the great railroad monopolies in the State 
and was instrumental in securing the pas- 
sage of the general railroad law governing 
these bodies. In 1877 he was elected by 
the State Legislature to the United States 
Senate to succeed the Hon. Frederick T. 
Frelinghuysen, and was twice reelected, 
occupying this high office from 1877 to 
1895, and during his third term was chosen 
chairman of the Senate committee on naval 
affairs. He was offered the Secretaryship 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



of the Treasury, but declined this honor, 
and two years after the expiration of his 
term as Senator he died, October 8, 1897. 



DICKINSON, Gen. Samuel Meredith, 
Ifaval Officer, Ijairyer, liaw Official. 

The late General Samuel Meredith 
Dickinson, of New Jersey, one of the fore- 
most members of the bar of the State of 
New Jersey, was endowed with the mental 
gifts of the highest order, and in the prac- 
tice of his profession he found full scope 
for their use to the best advantage of the 
important matters with which he was con- 
nected. Patriotic and loyal in the utmost 
degree, he was a worthy descendant of his 
distinguished ancestry. He was a son of 
Philemon and Margaret C. C. (Gobert) 
Dickinson ; a great-grandson of General 
Philemon Dickinson, the famous Revolu- 
tionary soldier, patriot and statesman ; 
great-great-grandson of Chief-Justice Sam- 
uel and Mary (Cadwalader) Dickinson: 
great-grandnephew of John Dickinson, 
LL.D., member of the Continental Con- 
gress, governor of Delaware and Pennsyl- 
vania, and one of the founders of Dickin- 
son College, Carlisle, Pennsylvania, this in- 
stitution being named in his honor ; and a 
descendant of Samuel Meredith, first treas- 
urer of the United States. 

General Samuel Meredith Dickinson was 
born June 25, 1839, in the historical man- 
sion, "The Hermitage." West State street 
and Hermitage avenue, Trenton, which 
was the country residence of his ancestor, 
Philemon Dickinson. He was educated at 
the old Trenton Academy at which many 
residents of the city were trained, which 
was located on the present site of the Free 
Public Library. During 1856 and 1857 ^e 
was engaged in the mercantile business in 
New York, then returned to Trenton and 
commenced the study of law in the office 
of the Hon. Mercer Beasley, later Chief 
Justice, and he remained there until 1861. 
The outbreak of the Civil War caused a 

201 



change in his plans, and in June, 1861, he 
was appointed paymaster in the United 
States Navy. In this capacity he served on 
the sloop of war "Dale," which was attach- 
ed to the North Atlantic Squadron, and 
commanded by Admiral Dupont. In 1862 
the vessel returned to Philadelphia, and 
General Dickinson, at that time colonel, 
was honorably discharged. 

The following year he was appointed 
private secretary to Governor Joel Parker, 
and served throughout the term, assisting 
in the duties which devolved upon the exe- 
cutive who, in addition to his work as gov- 
ernor, superintended and audited all of the 
State's war expenditures. Meanwhile he 
continued the study of law, and in June, 
1863, he was admitted to practice as an at- 
torney, and three years later as a counsel- 
or. In 1865 he was commissioned Colonel 
and Assistant Adjutant-General under 
General Robert F. Stockton, Jr.. in recog- 
nition of his services to the State during 
the war. General Dickinson received this 
appointment under a new law reorganizing 
the National Guard of the State, and held 
the position until 1893 when he was com- 
missioned brigadier-general by brevet, and 
retired. 

In 1867, when the position of Comptrol- 
ler of the Treasury was established, he was 
made deputy under William X. McDonald, 
and remained throughout the term. In 
1871 he entered upon the office of chief 
clerk of the Court of Chancery, and con^ 
tinned to perform the responsible duties of 
this position, for which his extended 
knowledge of chancery practice eminently 
fitted him, until his death. He was the au- 
thor of two valuable works on law ques- 
tions. One was "Chancery Precedents," 
published in 1870. and the other was "Pro- 
bate Court Practice," published in 1884. 
These works are accepted as standard au- 
thorities by both bench and bar throughout 
the State. After the death of Judge Stew- 
art in 1890, General Dickinson became 
chancery court reporter, compiling and 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



publishing, for the twenty-one Volumes of ripe scholar and a Christian gentlemen, noted 
the official reports of that Court. He was ^or ^is good ways and works. 



an advisory Master in Chancery, and in 
that capacity frequently sat to hear cases 
referred to him by the Chancellor. Gtner- 
al Dickinson was a noted authority on 
equity law, and was so regarded by the 
whole bar of the State. For many years 
he held the position of president of the 
New Jersey Society of the Sons of the Rev- 
olution, and was a member of the Military 
Order of the Loyal Legion, Commandery 
of Pennsylvania. He was treasurer of the 
Trenton Battle Monument Association, 
which was largely instrumental in erecting 
the local battle monument. 

General Dickinson married Garetta 
Moore, of Newtown, Long Island, a mem- 
ber of the old Moore family who were 
among the first settlers of that place. He 
had six children, five sons and a daughter. 
Following are a few extracts from a Mem- 
orial to General Dickinson, gotten and pub- 
lished by the Commandery of the State of 
Pennsylvania of the Military Order of the 
Loyal Legion of the United States : 

As paymaster of the United States Navy, he 
was attached to the sloop of war "Dale." and 
served in the North and South .Atlantic squad- 
rons, chiefly under Admiral Dupont. He sail- 
ed from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, July. 
1861, and was stationed off Newport News, Vir- 
ginia, for a short time and was then ordered to 
the South Atlantic, and performed blockade ser- 
vice between Charleston, S. C, and Cape Can- 
averal, his vessel capturing two blockade run- 
ners. -After the battle of Port Royal, his vessel 
was put on blockade duty in St. Helena Sound, 
and while there received Robert Small on his 
escape from Charleston with the "Planter." The 
"Dale" was then ordered North, and resigning, 
he was honorably discharged, October 31. 1862. 
having served with characteristic ability and fi- 
delity. 

In 1865 he was appointed .Assistant Adjutant 
General. New Jersey, with the rank of colonel, 
and contnued such until 1894, when he retired 
as Brevet Brigadier General. 

He was a member of Trinity Protestant Epis- 
copal Church of Trenton, New Jersey, and long 
was one of its honored vestrymen. He was a 

202 



Of distinguished ancestry, whose name was 
indissolubly linked with that of his native city 
and State for over a century, he maintained 
jealously the high record of his forbears and 
left an example all may well follow. It goes 
without saying that he was the very soul of 
honor and courtesy. He was patriotic, indus- 
trious, and devoted to every duty, both public 
and private. -And it may be well said that in 
many respects he was indeed an ideal Jersey- 
man and model American. 

General Dickinson was a distinguished 
citizen of Trenton and an exemplary .State 

official. 



LEE, Francis Bazley, 

LaiFyer, Historian, Anthor. 

To have achieved fame m one direction 
is conceded to be an enviable condition by 
the majority of human beings, but in the 
late Francis Bazley Lee, of Trenton, New 
Jersey, we have a man who attained emi- 
nence as a historian, a lawyer, and as a 
writer. In every one of these fields he was 
undoubtedly successful, and in every in- 
stance he always labored for the best in- 
terests of humanity, with never a thought 
of self-aggrandizement. His courage and 
fearlessness, his personal self-sacrifice, his 
executive ability and foresight, and his tal- 
ent for conducting to a successful issue a 
number of important affairs at the same 
time, are well nigh unparalleled. It is dif- 
ficult to estimate the value of the services 
rendered by Mr. Lee. It is not alone by 
what he did that results must be measured, 
but by the influence his admirable life has 
had upon others. Tender and loving in the 
home circle, his heart was filled with love 
toward all humanity. The excellent quali- 
ties which characterized Mr. Lee were also 
characteristic of his ancestors, and it will 
not be amiss to here give a brief introduc- 
tory account of them. 

Francis Lee, original emigrant and 
founder of the Port Elizabeth and Trenton 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



branch of the family, was born in 1749. 
His birthplace was in the "county of the 
town of Carrickfergus," an Antrim sea- 
port, ten miles from Belfast. Carrickfer- 
gus is memorable in history as an ancient 
capital of Ireland, and the landing place of 
William III, 1690. Owing to the destruc- 
tion of family papers there is no record of 
Francis Lee's ancestors, although tradition 
says they were non-conformists of Midland 
English stock. Nothing is known of Fran- 
cis Lee until November 21, 1770. when he 
married Jane Alexander, a school girl of 
good family. With her, it is said, he elop- 
ed to America, and is supposed to have ar- 
rived at Philadelphia, where he soon com- 
menced to acquire property. In 1774 he 
paid a four-pound tax in the Chestnut ward 
in Philadelphia, and is named among war- 
rantees for thirty acres of land in North- 
umberland cotmty, Pennsylvania, and two 
lots in Sunbury, the then recently settled 
capital of the county. During the Revolu- 
tionary War, Francis Lee prospered, and 
towards its close he dealt actively in real 
estate. In 1780 he purchased in Philadel- 
phia the attainted Front street land of 
George Knapper, and in 1782 acquired 
large tracts in the Northern Liberties, on 
the Wissahickon road and in Blockley 
township on the Haverford road. These 
and other transactions involved many 
tliousands of pounds, currency. From 
1778 to 1787 he paid State and Federal 
supply tax as a "non-resident" of North- 
umberland county. He appears as "inn- 
keeper" as early as 1774. Sharf and West- 
cott are authority for the following state- 
ment : "A movement was begun which 
might have led to trouble if the city had 
not changed hands so soon." (This re- 
fers to the British occupation). "It orig- 
inated in a meeting held at the Indian 
Queen (kept by Francis Lee) and the ob- 
ject was to insist on exemption from mili- 
tary duty for such as had furnished substi- 
tutes." 

Previous to this, however, the journals 

263 



of the Continental Congress show that 
Francis Lee had furnished the Whigs with 
expresses, meals for soldiers, a stage coach 
for the use of Generals Prescott and Mc- 
Donald, and later had entertained John 
Paul Jones. In the Philadelphia directory 
for 1785 is to be found this reference: 
"Francis Lee, inkeeper and every day stage 
to and from New York, Corner of 4th and 
Market street." The stage started every 
morning at four o'clock from the "Indian 
Queen." The "Indian Queen" had been 
kept by Francis Lee until about this period. 
Upon March 8, 1783, Jacob Berry, a sur- 
veyor, conveyed to Francis Lee a tract of 
land in Haverford township, Chester coun- 
ty, Pennsylvania, and in 1786 or 1787, 
Francis Lee removed from Philadelphia, 
presumably to this purchase. Upon re- 
linquishing the "Indian Queen" he surrend- 
ered an inn property which was one of the 
finest in Philadelphia. Some idea of the 
house may be gathered from the journals 
and correspondence of Manasseh Cutter, 
agent of the Ohio Land Company, who vis- 
ited Philadelphia in July, 1787, and says: 
"It is kept in an elegant style and consists 
of a large pile of buildings with many spa- 
cious halls and numerous small apartments 
appropriate for lodging rooms. As soon 
as I had inquired of the bar keeper if I 
could be furnished with lodgings, a livery 
servant was ordered immediately to attend 
me, who received my baggage from the 
hostler and conducted me to the apartments 
assigned me by the bar keeper, which was 
a rather small but a very handsome cham- 
ber (No. 9), furnished with a rich field 
bed, bureau, table with drawers, a large 
looking glass, neat chairs and other furni- 
ture. Its front was east, and being in the 
3rd floor afforded a fine prospect toward 
the river and the Jersey shore. The serv- 
ant that attended me was a young, spright- 
ly, well built black fellow, neatly dressed, 
blue coat, sleeves, and cape red. and buff 
waistcoat and breeches, the bosom of his 
shirt ruffled and his hair powdered. After 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



he had brought up my baggage and prop- 
erly deposited it in the chamber, he brought 
two of the latest London magazines and 
laid on the table. I ordered him to call a 
barber, furnish me with a bowl of water 
for washing and to have tea on the table 
by the time I was dressed." Among the 
famous visitors who were to be found dur- 
ing this period in the "Indian Queen" 
were : General Washington, and it was to 
this inn he retired in 1797 after bidding 
farewell to public life ; Cornplanter, and 
other notable Tammany chiefs ; members 
of Congress ; and distinguished military 
characters of the Revolution. The inn was 
finally removed to make way for business 
structures. 

During the Revolutionary War, Francis 
Lee appears as a private upon the roll of 
Captain Tench Francis' company. First 
Battalion, Pennsylvania Militia, August, 
1781. (See vol. I, page 787, "Philadelphia 
Associators and Militia;" vol. 13, page 128, 
2nd series, Pennsylvania Archives). In 
1781 Captain Francis' company brought to 
Philadelphia from Boston the French gold 
designed for the use of the Whigs. Con- 
veying the fourteen wagons and fifty-six 
oxen, Francis Lee, on account of his abili- 
ty in matters of transportation, was engag- 
ed in that service, the gold reaching Phila- 
delphia in November. Francis Lee remov- 
ed from Haverford township towards the 
close of tRe century. July 11, 1796, John 
Kennedy, of East Whiteland, Chester coun- 
ty, Pennsylvania, conveyed a plantation to 
him. May 20, 1800, Francis Lee was ap- 
pointed justice for Tredyffryn, Charles- 
town, East Whiteland and West White- 
land, Chester county, the commission being 
signed by Governor Tliomas McKean. 
Until his death he added to his landed in- 
terests and was prominent as a breeder of 
running horses. He was a member of the 
Great Valley Presbyterian Church, died 
April 30, 1815, and is buried in the church- 
yard there. 

Francis Lee married (first) Jane Alex- 



ander, born about 1750, died about 1785, 
and had eleven children. (According to 
vol. 9, 2nd series. Pennslyvania Archives, 
a Francis Lee, December 16, 1792, married 
filizabeth Bache, in the First Presbyterian 
Church in Philadelphia). In a real estate 
transaction involving property in Blockley 
township, March 25, 1791, "Elizabeth" is 
given as the name of the wife of Francis 
Lee, innholder. He married again, No- 
vember 18, 1793, Margaretta Cloyd, born 
August 18, 1771, died July 4, 1805, having 
had five children. His last wife was Eliz- 
abeth Cloyd, whose will was dated 1818. 
By this marriage there were no children. 

Thomas Lee, son of Francis and Jane 
(Alexander) Lee, was born November 28, 
1780, and died November 2, 1856. He 
came to Cumberland county, about 1798, 
and lived at Leesburg for a time. May 22, 
1805, he married Rhoda Murphy, and liv- 
ed for a short time with his brother-in- 
law, Benjamin Fisler, a distinguished di- 
vine of the Methodist Episcopal church, 
and a physician. Shortly afterward he built 
a home in Port Elizabeth, still standing, 
and was engaged in the mercantile and 
lumber business extensively. He and his 
partner, Joshua Brick (later his bitter po- 
litical opponent), were government contrac- 
tors during the War of 1812. Thomas Lee 
was one of the incorporators of the Port 
Elizabeth Manufacturing Company. He 
was an anti-Federalist, and later a Jack- 
sonian Democrat, and a record of his pub- 
lic career is as follows: Judge and justice 
of the Court of Common Pleas, Novem- 
ber 3, 1813, to February 17, 1815: post- 
master of Port Elizabeth, October 31. 1818, 
to January 2, 1833. when he was succeed- 
ed by his son Francis ; again appointed post- 
master, January 20, 1846, and served until 
June II, 1849: member of Congress, 1833- 
1837, during a part of this time being chair- 
man of the committee on accounts, and was 
the personal representative of President 
Jackson in the southern section of the 
State. He was active in his support of 



204 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



public education and various philanthro- 
pies, and was one of the founders of the 
Port Elizabeth Library and the Port Eliz- 
abeth Academy. His wife, who died April 
6, 1858, was a descendant of John Mur- 
phy, who died about 1777, leaving a large 
plantation and a good library. Tliey had 
children : Francis ; Thomas ; Ellen Brick, 
married Dr. Bowen ; Elizabeth Cloyd, mar- 
ried Osterhout ; Clement Jones ; Lor- 
enzo Fisler ; Benjamin Fisler. 

Benjamin Fisler Lee, son of Thomas and 
Rhoda (Murphy) Lee, was born in the Lee 
Mansion, Port Elizabeth, June 30, 1828, 
and died in Alantic City, in April, 1909. 
He received an excellent education and up- 
on its completion joined his father in bus- 
iness as a partner, which connection was 
kept up until the Civil War. Mr. Lee's po- 
litical career commenced in 1850, when he 
supported Nathan T. Stratton for Con- 
gress. In 1856 he served as a Democratic 
presidential elector, and as a member of 
the Democratic State Committee. In 1859 
and 1 861 he was nominated for the New 
Jersey House of Assembly, being defeated 
both times by small Republican majorities. 
In 1870, as congressional nominee, he 
greatly reduced the Republican majority 
of the old First Congressional District. In 
187 1, as nominee for the office of governor, 
he retired in favor of the late Governor 
Joel Parker. He entered upon the duties 
of clerk of the New Jersey Supreme Court, 
November 2, 1872, and retained the office 
until November 2, 1897, when it passed in- 
to Republican control. He was treasurer 
of the Democratic State Committee from 
1886 to 1895. From 1850 Mr. Lee was 
identified with the development of railroad 
interests in the southern part of the State. 
In 1853 he was one of the incorporators 
of the West Jersey Railroad Company, and 
in 1859 one of the incorporators of the 
West Jersey Central Railroad. By Act of 
Legislature, March 9, 1863, he was named 
as director of the Cape May & Millville 
railroad, and being elected treasurer of the 

205 



company, held this office until 1872. He 
was a leading spirit in the building of the 
Stockton Hotel at Cape May. In 1866 was 
an incorporator of the Bridgeton & Port 
Norris railroad, and was actively connect- 
ed with it until it became the Cumberland 
& Maurice River railroad. He was a di- 
rector of the West Jersey railroad and the 
West Jersey & Sea Shore railroad, and was 
instrumental in the construction of the 
Maurice River and Newfield-Atlantic City 
branches. He was founder and president 
of the Trent Tile Company of Trenton, and 
the Universal Paper Bag Company ; and 
director of the Trenton Banking Company, 
Standard Fire Insurance Company of 
Trenton, and the Union Mills Paper Man- 
ufacturing Company of New Hope, Penn- 
sylvania. In 1888 he became manager of 
the State Home for Feeble Minded Women 
at Vineland, and later president of the 
Board ; he was president of the New Jer- 
sey State Conference of Charities and Cor- 
rections : vestryman for many years of 
Trinity Protestant Episcopal Church, of 
Trenton ; and member of the New Jersey 
State Historical Society, American Aca- 
demy of Political and Social Science of 
Philadelphia; Mercantile Library of Phil- 
adelphia : Lotus Club and Country Club of 
Trenton. 

Mr. Lee married, July 16, 1862, Anna- 
bella Willson Townsend, bom September 
21, 1835. She is a daughter of the late 
William Smith Townsend, of Dennisville, 
New Jersey ; is descended directly from 
Richard Townsend, who first appeared at 
Jamaica, Long Island, 1656, and died near 
Oyster Bay, 1671, leaving among other 
children, John, who married Phebe Wil- 
liams, daughter of John Williams. John 
Townsend was one of the earliest settlers 
of Cape May county, gave his name to 
Townsend's Inlet, and was a justice and 
one of His Majesty's High Sheriflfs. He 
died in 1721, and among his children was 
Richard, probably the first white child born 
in Cape May county, born in 1681, died 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



1737, married Millicent Somers, of Somer- 
set Plantation, now Somen's Point. Her 
father, John, was the ancestor of Commo- 
dore Richard Somers. Isaac Townsend, 
son of Richard and Millicent (Somers) 
Townsend, married Sarah, daughter of 
John Willetts. Isaac Townsend, son of 
Isaac and Sarah (Willetts) Townsend, was 
born in 1738, died in 1780; he married Ke- 
turah, daughter of Josiah and Anne (Aus- 
tin) Albertson, and granddaughter of 
Francis Austin, of the Vale of Evesham, 
Burlington county. Isaac Townsend, son 
of Isaac and Keturah (Albertson) Town- 
send, married Hannah Ogden, a lineal de- 
scendant of David Ogden, who came to 
Pennsylvania in 1682 with William Penn 
in the "Welcome." William Smith Town- 
send, son of Isaac and Hannah (Ogden) 
Townsend, a merchant, ship builder and 
railroad constructor in Dennisville, Cape 
May county, was born in 181 1, died in 
1881 ; married, in 1833, Hannah Smith 
Ludlam, daughter of Henry and Mary 
(Lawrence) Ludlam, and a descendant of 
Anthony Ludlam, who settled in South- 
ampton, Long Island, in 1640, and whose 
son, Joseph Ludlam, was one of the first 
settlers of Cape May county. Of the di- 
rect line was Lieutenant Henry Ludlam, of 
the Cape May militia in the Revolution, 
with descent from John May, founder of 
May's Landing, the county seat of Atlantic 
county. Mr. and Mrs. Lee had children : 
Francis Bazley, who is mentioned at the 
head of this sketch ; Anna Townsend ; Mar- 
g^ierite Alexander, who married Judge 
Huston Dixon, Esq., of Trenton. 

Francis Bazley Lee, son of Benjamin 
Fisler and Annabella Willson (Townsend) 
Lee, was born in the Merchants' Hotel, 
Philadelphia, January 3, 1869, and died at 
the Jefferson Hospital, Philadelphia, May 
2, 19 14. He received his preparatory edu- 
cation in the Trenton Seminary, Lawrence- 
ville School, during the last year of Dr. 
Samuel M. Hamill's principalship and the 
first year of the John C. Green founda- 

206 



tion, and was graduated from the State 
Model School in 1888. While at the Model 
School he founded in 1885 "The Signal," 
the school paper, and was secretary and 
president of the Thencanic Literary Soci- 
ety. Entering the junior class at the Uni- 
versity of Pennsylvania, Mr. Lee complet- 
ed in 1890 a special course on American 
history, political economy and constitution- 
al law in the Wharton School. At college 
he was active in the reorganization of Iota 
Chapter, Phi Kappa Psi fraternity, subse- 
quently becoming archon of the district; 
was an associate editor of "The Pennsyl- 
vanian ;" and made special investigations 
for the matriculate catalogue committee. 
Upon graduation he was ivy orator. The 
summer of 1890 Mr. Lee spent in Europe, 
where he made the first translation from 
French of the Belgian constitution, and es- 
pecially studied the health problems of 
municipalities. During the following au- 
tumn and winter he took a special course 
in English literature in the University of 
Pennsylvania. 

Having completed his legal studies in the 
office of Hon. G. D. W. Vroom, of Tren- 
ton, Mr. Lee was admitted to the bar of 
New Jersey, in June, 1893. From July of 
that year, until May, 1894, he assisted the 
city solicitor of Trenton. Edwin Robert 
Walker, in legal matters connected with the 
establishment of the sewer system of that 
city. In June, 1896. Mr. Lee was admitted 
as a counselor-at-law. During this period, 
with Nelson L. Petty, of Trenton, Mr. Lee 
was secretary to the commission to compile 
the general statutes of New Jersey issued 
in 1896. In 1897 and 1898 Mr. Lee was 
the receiver and managing editor of the 
"Trenton Times," also, in 1905 becoming 
acting editor of the Democratic "True 
American," at the personal solicitation of 
its editor, Joseph L. Naar, during his last 
illness. He was a director in the Standard 
Fire Insurance Company, the West Jersey 
Railroad Company, the Mechanics' Nation- 
al Bank, and succeeded his father as presi- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



dent of the Trent Tile Company, of which 
office he was the incumbent at the time of 
his death. 

Mr. Lee contributed largely to current 
historical and legal literature. He wrote 
frequently for the daily newspaper press of 
New Jersey, while among his more exten- 
sive contributions are : "Memorial of 
George White Worman," 1890; "Supreme 
Court of New Jersey," Medico-Legal 
Journal, March, 1892 ; data relating to New 
Jersey men in the Matriculate Catalogue 
of the University of Pennsylvania ; a ser- 
ies of articles on Colonial laws, legislations 
and customs, New Jersey Law Journal. 
1891-1902; "Colonial Jersey Coinage," 
1893 ; "^Agricultural Improvement in 
Southern New Jersey," 1894; "Jersey- 
isms," 1894: "History of Trenton," 1895; 
"History of the Great Seal of New Jersey." 
in Zieber's "American Heraldry :" and 
"Outline History and Compilations and Re- 
visions of the Colony and State of New 
Jersey, iji^-iSgG," in the General Statutes 
of New Jersey, 1896. He was for several 
years a member of the publication commit- 
tee of the New Jersey Archives, and edited 
vol. ii of the 2nd series. He was also chair- 
man of a committee of the University of 
Pennsylvania, class of 1890, which in 1895 
published the quinquennial record of the 
class. He wrote the four-volume history, 
"New Jersey as a Colony and as a State," 
and prepared the articles on "New Jersey," 
"Newark," and "Trenton," in the "Ency- 
clopedia Americana." An article upon "Re- 
ceivers of Insolvent Corporations" in the 
American Corporation Legal Manual was 
also from his facile pen. 

In matters of public health and parks, 
Mr. Lee took an active interest. He be- 
came a member of the board of health in 
1901 and led a campaign for mosquito ex- 
termination. By reason of resultant agi- 
tation in 1903 the common council of the 
city of Trenton commenced the plan of the 
purchase of the Delaware river front, Mr. 
Lee being secretary of the special commit- 



tee on the acquisition of park lands. So 
active was he in the pursuit of plans for 
beautifying that section of the city, that the 
suggestion was made to name the park in 
his honor. His mother has had plans 
drawn for a shelter and playhouse for the 
children of Trenton to be erected in the 
park as a memorial to her husband and 
her son, these plans calling for a beautiful 
and artistic structure which will be an 
adornment to the park. 

Mr. Lee was a thirty-second degree Ma- 
son : a member of the New Jersey Histori- 
cal Society ; recording secretary of the 
Princeton Historical Society ; member of 
the Burlington County, Monmouth County 
and Salem County (New Jersey) Historical 
societies, and of the Bucks County (Penn- 
sylvania) Historical Society ; correspond- 
ing secretary of the New Jersey Sons of 
the Revolution for ten years ; at one time a 
member of the board of managers of the 
Revolutionary Memorial Society, and active 
in the attempts to preserve Washington's 
headquarters in Rocky Hill and Somerville ; 
for a time secretary and president of the 
State Schools Alumni Association, of 
which he was one of the organizers : mem- 
ber of the American Dialect Society ; the 
New Jersey Society of Pennsylvania and 
of the State and Mercer County Bar asso- 
ciations. From December, 1892, he was a 
member of the Board of Managers of the 
New Jersey State Charities Aid Society, 
and a member of its law committee. In 
April, 1895. Mr. Lee was appointed one of 
a special committee to examine the penal 
laws of New Jersey and other States, and 
to report necessary and beneficial changes. 
Much beneficial legislation resulted from 
the reports of this body. He was secre- 
tary to the commission to compile the pub- 
lic statutes of New Jersey, and was in 
charge of New Jersey's historical exhibit 
at the Jamestown Ter-Centennial Exposi- 
tion, and was also historian to the execu- 
tive committee of the Washington's Cross- 
ing committee. He was a member and ves- 



207 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



tryman for a number of years of Vincen- 
town Trinity Episcopal Church. 

Mr. Lee married, in Vincentown, New 
Jersey, June 12, 1894, Sara Stretch Eayre, 
born in Junction City, Kansas, only child 
of Captain George Stretch and Marie Burr 
(Bryan) Eayre, and a descendant in both 
paternal and maternal lines from some of 
the most prominent families in the country. 
Giild : Rhoda, born November 5, 1898. 

Of Mr. Lee it may be said that he was a 
man of large and symmetrical mentality, 
an orator of great personal magnetism, and 
invariably a power in his community. Log- 
ic, clear and forcible, sarcasm, quiet but 
scathing, and wit of rapierlike keenness 
were wielded by him with a masterly skill. 
His penetrating thought often added wis- 
dom to public movements, and he ever took 
an interest in those matters which tended to 
improve the public welfare. Mr. Lee was a 
man of serious aims, far-sighted in busi- 
ness, broad in views, cherishing generous 
ideals, entertaining in society, and finding 
his friends among young and old, rich and 
poor. These are the traits which shone in 
his character and made him an object of 
universal esteem and a representative of 
those interests which have conserved the 
progress of the State. 



HOLLINSHEAD, Charles Sterling, 

Leading Insurance Actuary. 

New Jersey the State of his birth, life- 
long residence, and death, it was as an of- 
ficial of a great Pennsylvania corporation 
that the active life of Charles Sterling Hol- 
linshead was passed. His entrance into the 
field of insurance was a natural event in 
his life's course, his father having been for 
more than a quarter of a century secretary 
of the Insurance Company of the State of 
Pennsylvania, and in that business he rose 
rapidly to the high position for which his 
capabilities and talents qualified him, re- 
tiring from the presidency of the Union In- 
surance Company in 1906, after a long term 

208 



spent in its service. The following pages 
speak of his busy and useful career, of the 
love and esteem in which he was held by 
his associates and friends, and of the ac- 
complishments of his life. His memory is 
preserved in the hearts of many, both in 
Philadelphia, his place of business, and 
Merchantville, New Jersey, his home for 
nearly forty-five years. Known in the one 
place as the forceful man of aflfairs, a lead- 
er of men, he was as well loved and respect- 
ed in the latter as the public spirited citi- 
zen, interested and a participant in the ac- 
tivities of his town. 

Charles Sterling Hollinshead, son of 
Joseph H. and Margaret W. Hollinshead, 
was born in New Jersey, January 10, 1850, 
and obtained his general education in the 
schools of his native State and of Phila- 
delphia, completing his studies in the insti- 
tutions of the latter city. He was but a 
youth when his early training began in the 
business that became his life work, his first 
position being in the offices of the Insur- 
ance Company of the State of Pennsyl- 
vania, a corporation his father long served 
in the office of secretary. His training with 
this concern was thorough and complete, 
and he subsequently branched out into in- 
dependent operations as an associate of the 
general agency firm of Duy & Hollinshead, 
his connection with the Union Insurance 
Company beginning at the time he attained 
his majority. Even at this early period of 
his life he had attracted the favorable atten- 
tion of those in positions of influence in the 
world of insurance, and in the position of 
fire manager of the Union Company he ful- 
filled the high exi>ectations of his superiors 
in office. Although he had excellent oppor- 
tunities for advancement in the agent's line, 
subsequent events proved the wisdom of 
his change. 

As fire manager of the Union Insurance 
Company, Mr. Hollinshead applied himself 
with the vigor and enthusiasm of youth 
to the improvement and upbuilding of that 
branch of the company's interests, and 







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gfl^H|^B|^ 




CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



spared himself not at all in his earnest ef- 
forts. His first move was to acquaint him- 
self with every part of his organization, 
making personal friends of many of his 
subordinates, and securing their loyal 
friendship and the assurance of their aid 
at every turn. Upon this secure founda- 
tion of allegiance he developed his branch 
of the company's business to an extent that 
won him the grateful commendation of the 
officers of the company and wide notice 
among insurance men. His work was an 
important factor in enabling the Union In- 
surance Company to maintain a condition 
of solvency and honorable position during 
the years that marked the disastrous fail- 
ure and compulsory retirement of many 
companies. 

The close of the year 1888 saw a well 
planned movement for the reorganization 
of the company, which provided for the 
Union Insurance Company's retirement 
from the marine branch of the business, 
making fire insurance its sole activity. The 
first meeting of the board of directors in 
January, 1889, after the reorganization, 
was for the election of officers, and Charles 
Sterling Hollinshead was chosen to fill the 
office of president, becoming the ninth pres- 
ident of the Union Insurance Company 
since its founding. Young in years and 
experience, he was yet old in the lessons 
that are learned through weighty respon- 
sibility and the management of important 
affairs, and none who had worked with 
him or who had come into touch with his 
department felt any fears for the Union 
Company under his leadership. Amid the 
maze of unusual conditions that existed af- 
ter the reorganization he retained in ad- 
mirable manner his clearness of judgment, 
his calm mental balance, and at no time 
was the credit or standing of the Company 
in jeopardy. He had assumed vast obliga- 
tions, and in their discharge he showed bus- 
iness talent of exceptional order and exe- 
cutive ability granted only to the few. 

200 

II— 14 



Mr. Hollinshead remained in the office 
of president of the Union Insurance Com- 
pany until February, 1906, when he retir- 
ed from his long connection with that cor- 
poration. The years he spent in its ser- 
vice, most successful from a business vieW' 
point, were likewise most agreeable in the 
pleasant associations and the lasting friend- 
ships formed. The occasion of the twenty- 
fifth anniversary of his service, October 14, 
1897, was marked by a testimonial banquet 
held in the Hotel Walton, Philadelphia, 
when Mr. Hollinshead was the recipient of 
a solid silver dinner service, the joint gift 
of the board of directors, office staff, and 
special agents of the Union Insurance Com- 
pany. No less sincere and earnest was the 
regret felt and expressed by all of his as- 
sociates at the time of his resignation from 
the presidency. The following report was 
spread on the minutes of the Union Fire 
Insurance Company, and a copy was tend- 
ered Mr. Hollinshead : 

Philadelphia, February 13, 1906. 
Mr. Charles S. Hollinshead having resigned 
as president and director of the Union Fire In- 
surance Comapny of Philadelphia, thus severing 
a connection of thirty-four years, eighteen of 
which were passed as its executive head : 

The members of the board of directors de- 
sire to place on record an expression of their 
h:gh appreciation of his integrity, ability, and 
personal qualities which have so much attached 
him to the members of the Board of the Union 
Insurance Company through the many years of 
liis service; 

And to express our regret at the occasion of 
his retirement. 

Respectfully submitted, 

Carroll Neide, Chairman, 
B. Frank Hart, 
Charles Tete, Jr. 

Committee. 

That his services were productive of ben- 
efit to the entire business as well as to that 
of the Union Company, is testified by a let- 
ter addressed to him by the Corporate . 
Underwriters of Philadelphia, soon after 
his retirement, a copy of which was prepar- 
ed in beautiful form and presented to him: 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Philadelphia, February 26, 1906. 
Charles S. Hollinshead, Esq- 
Philadelphia. 
Deiar Sir: 

At a meeting of the Corporate Underwriters 
of Philadelphia called to take suitable action up- 
on your retirement from the presidency of the 
Union Fire Insurance Company, the undersign- 
ed were appointed a committee to give voice to 
the sentiments of respect and esteem in which 
you are held by your associates. 

This pleasing duty is only made difficult by 
the very many things which could be said in 
expression of appreciation of the high position 
which you have maintained during the years 
you have been at the head of the Company. 

The difficulties which you have been forced 
to meet are such as have been rarely success- 
fully overcome by any underwriter in the his- 
tory of the business, and your intelligent and 
manful struggle with the conditions which have 
confronted you has had the sympathy and chal- 
lenged the admiration not only of your asso- 
ciates in Philadelphia but of underwriters 
throughout the entire country. 

Throughout all these difficulties you have 
maintained for yourself and the Company the 
highest standard of good faith and good under- 
writing practice and notwithstanding the absorb- 
ing difficulties of your corporate position, you 
have freely given your time in the interest of 
the business at large. 

All these things are fully appreciated by your 
associates, who feel that the honor and credit 
of Philadelphia Fire Insurance Companies have 
been promoted by the e.xcellent work which you 
have accomplished. 

Trusting that your connection with the busi- 
ness may not be entirely severed by the recent 
change which has come about, and assuring you 
of the confidence and good will of all your as- 
sociates. 

We Remain, 

Very Truly Yours. 

Tatnall Paulding, 
R. Dale Benson, 
Charles R. Peck. 

The withdrawal of Mr. Hollinshead 
from the presidency of the Union Fire In- 
surance Company did not mark his abso- 
lute retirement from business, although 
this came in 1908, the two intervening 
years passed as manager of the fire under- 
writing department of the Franklin Fire 



Insurance Company. From 1908 until his 
death, December 5, 19 12, he was free from 
official business connection, enjoying well 
earned leisure in his long time home, Mer- 
chantville. New Jersey. The period of his 
life prior to his acceptance of the presi- 
dency of the Union Fire Insurance Com- 
pany was but one of preparation ; the two 
years of his active life after his retirement 
from that office were but filled with duties 
that made the laying aside of his official 
Irtirdens more easy; the work that stands 
as his life attainment is that which he ac- 
complished in the capacity of chief execu- 
tive of the Union Company. Just how 
worthy that was may be known in full de- 
gree only to those who stood shoulder to 
shoulder with him in times of adversity 
and financial danger, but the above quoted 
words convey some idea of its importance 
to the unexperienced in such affairs. 

In the life of the Merchantville com- 
munity he ever took a prominent part, ex- 
tending his interest and activity to the po- 
litical situation in county and State, always 
as a supporter of the Republican party. For 
several years he was a member of the Mer- 
chantville Borough Council, as a member 
of this body aiding in the enactment of or- 
dinances safe-guarding the natural beauties 
and advantages of the town and protecting 
its interests and citizenship. He was appre- 
ciated by his neighbors and fellow citizens 
as he was by those who knew him only as 
the business man, and in the associations 
of his home and town was the source of 
the strength and courage that made him a 
power in the insurance world. 

Charles Sterling Hollinshead married 
Margaret S. Errickson, and was the father 
of four children. Francis A., Marie L., 
Sterling E., and Emily J. 



BENTLEY, Peter, Sr., 

The late Peter Bentley Sr., during an un- 
usually long and active career, was held in 



210 




,^?s> 



^ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



high honor for his legal abilities, his mark- 
ed usefulness in community affairs, and his 
sterling nobility of personal character. 

He was born in the village of Half 
Moon, Saratoga county. New York, in 
1805. His parents were Christopher and 
Eleanor (Althouse) Bentley; the father was 
of English descent, and his mother came 
from an early Dutch family of New York 
City. He was reared on a farm, and his 
school advantages were meagre, but his 
ambition led him to a self -education which 
proved an excellent equipment. At the age 
of twenty years he took employment in the 
printing house of Yates & Mclntyre, in 
New York City. He was even then predis- 
posed to the law, and during his five years' 
continuance with the firm ardently exerted 
himself to preparation for his chosen call- 
ing. In 1830 he entered the office of Sam- 
uel Cassidy, then one of the foremost law- 
yers in New Jersey, and made such pro- 
gress in his studies and developed such a 
genuine talent for the profession that he 
soon came to be entrusted with the greater 
part of his tutor's business in the justices' 
courts. He was admitted to the bar as an 
attorney at the May term, 1834, and as a 
counsellor in September, 1839. By this 
time he was finally established in his pro- 
fession, and he erected a building for of- 
fice purposes. During his professional ca- 
reer he was connected with some of the 
most notable litigation of the day, and of 
far-reaching importance. In 1842, as attor- 
ney for the selectmen of Jersey City, he 
was engaged in the celebrated Dummer 
case, in which was decided the doctrine of 
dedication by maps. Another case of vast 
importance was the Bell case, in which 
Mrs. Bell laid claim to the tract of land 
under water under title of descent, and re- 
affirmed by special grant of the New Jer- 
sey Legislature. These titles were contest- 
ed by another on the ground that, as he 
held uncontested title to the bordering 
shore property, the submerged extension 
of the same was of right his own, and he 



constructed a pier. This cause celebre, be- 
gun in 1843, was not finally adjudicat- 
ed until nearly a quarter of a century later, 
when Mr. Bentley achieved an entire victory 
in securing for his client, Mrs. Bell, the 
maintenance of the claim. He subsequently 
administered upon Mrs. Bell's riparian 
lands, which he disposed of to her great ad- 
vantage. These lands are now a portion of 
the valuable Jersey City railway terminal. 
Many very important trusts were confided 
to Mr. Bentley, and his judgment was great- 
ly relied upon. From the first he held to 
the conviction that real estate investments 
were safer and more profitable than any 
other. He enjoyed in highest degree the 
confidence of people of Holland descent, 
and he was the agent for a great number of 
the best families in the investment of 
money upon real estate, and he settled 
many large estates, all to the great advan- 
tage of the parties in interest. 

Throughout his life, Mr. Bentley took 
an active part in commimity aflFairs, and 
he e.xerted a marked influence in the devel- 
opment of both his city and county. He 
took a leading part in formulating the char- 
ters and other legal instruments upon 
which were based the county of Hudson 
and its principal municipalities. He made 
large investments in real estate, and was a 
pioneer in local improvements, especially in 
the Bergen Hill section, which he opened 
up and beautified, and where he erected an 
almost palatial residence. He guarded with 
jealous care the interests of the taxpaying 
public, to protect them against unnecessary 
taxation and municipal advantages. At one 
time many years' accumulations of unpaid 
taxes had imposed unjust burdens upon 
paying property owners, and he conceived 
the idea of a commission of leading citi- 
zens who should make an equitable re-ad- 
justment. In 1873 he procured the enact- 
ment of a law to that end ; a commission 
was appointed, with former Supreme 
Court Justice Haines as chairman, and 
which gave a satisfactory solution to the 



k 



311 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



most formidable problem which had con- 
fronted the community. 

In 1833, while yet a law student, Mr. 
Bentley was elected clerk of the board of 
selectmen of Jersey City, and he was elect- 
ed to the mayoralty in 1843, acquitting him- 
self with characteristic ability and fidelity 
in both these places. He was repeatedly 
solicited to accept higher political honors, 
but he was wedded to his profession and 
the interests of his city. He was one of 
the organizers of the Mechanics' & Trad- 
ers' Bank in 1853, ^"'^ was its president 
for several years. For some years prior 
to and at the time of his death, he was a 
trustee and counsel of the Provident In- 
stitution for Savings of Jersey City, vice- 
president of the Jersey City Savings Bank, 
director and treasurer of the Jersey City 
Gas Company, and treasurer of the Jersey 
City and Bergen Plank Road Company. 

A Democrat in early life, he left the 
party in 1848 upon the issue of slavery, 
and was one of the leaders in forming the 
Free Soil party in New Jersey. He allied 
himself with the Republican party at its or- 
ganization in 1856, and was thereafter one 
of its most steadfast adherents, and, dur- 
ing the Civil War, a most determined sup- 
porter of the Union cause. He had a charm- 
ing personality. As a biographer spoke of 
him, "he was a rare gentleman, peculiarly 
attached to his wife and children, gracious 
and hospitable in his home, sincere and 
earnest in his religious faith, and so honest 
and honorable in all the affairs of his life 
that the faintest breath was never raised 
to question his integrity." 

He died at his home in Jersey City, Sep- 
tember 26, 1875, being at the time the old- 
est practitioner of the bar of that city, with 
a record of some forty-two years of pro- 
fessional service. The courts of Hudson 
took an adjournment in honor of his mem- 
ory, and a committee reported appropriate 
resolutions, in his recognition "as one who 
stood eminent in his professional life and 
character, always devoted to the interests 



of his clients; having a clear perception of 
the right, and a happy faculty of adjusting 
disputes and effecting settlements among 
men, and, in the long course of his profes- 
sional life, leaving a spotless record." 

Mr. Bentley married, October 13, 1842, 
Margaret E. Holmes, of Jersey City, and 
they had two children — Peter Bentley (2d) 
and Rosaline Bentley. 



PARSONS, Ellwood, 

Stanscli amd Trusted CitizeB. 

The Parsons family, for seven genera- 
tions associated with the affairs of Bucks 
and Philadelphia counties, Pennsylvania, is 
of ancient English residence and is prob- 
ably of Norman origin, tracing to the time 
of the Crusaders, the early form of the 
name being Pierreson, son of Pierre. The 
earliest record of the name in English her- 
aldry is in the "Visitation to Hereford in 
1286," when Sir John Parsons, of Cud- 
dingham, is awarded armorial bearings 
comprising a leopard's head between three 
crosses, indicating that the original grantee 
was a Crusader. 

Authentic records name George Parsons, 
of Middlezoy, Somersetshire, England, 
born about 1540, as ancestor of Ellwood 
Parsons, of this chronicle. George Par- 
sons was the father of a son John, and 
four daughters. Toward the close of the 
seventeenth century several representatives 
of the Somersetshire family of Parsons, 
who had become converts to the faith of 
George Fox, found their way to Pennsyl- 
vania, among them a John Parsons, great- 
grandson of George Parsons, previously 
mentioned, grandson of John, and son of 
John Parsons, and with him the American 
record of this line begins. 

John Parsons, the American ancestor of ^ 
the branch of the Parsons family claiming^ 
Ellwood Parsons as member, was born at 
Middlezoy, Somersetshire, England, about 
1630, and in early manhood allied himself 
with the believers in the faith of George 



212 



4 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Fox, suffering persecution for this allegi- 
ance. In 1670 he was fined, with other 
members of Middlezoy Meeting, for refus- 
ing to pay tithes, and five years afterward 
was placed in prison for the same offence. 
He was one of seven Quakers impris- 
oned for holding religious meetings after 
the manner of their faith, who in 1684 ad- 
dressed an eloquent petition to the judges 
of the assizes, complaining against the in- 
justice of their detention. He and his wife 
Florence signed a certificate for their son 
John, from the Meeting at Middlezoy to 
Friends in Philadelphia, dated 7 mo. (Sep- 
tember) 4, 1681. This son John returned 
to Middlezoy in 1685, married Ann Powell, 
and with her, his brother Thomas and his 
sister Jane Tyler and her family returned 
to Pennsylvania in the same year. This 
party was accompanied by the parents of 
John and Thomas Parsons. John and Flor- 
ence Parsons. 

Thomas, son of John and Florence Par- 
sons, of Middlezoy, Somersetshire, and 
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was born about 
1663. Like his father he was a member 
of the Society of Friends, and in 1683 was 
imprisoned, with others, ait Ilchester, Coun- 
ty Somerset, for attending a conventicle 
held at Gregory-Stoke, where the Quarter- 
ly Meeting of Friends was usually held. 
He married, in 1685, Jeane or Jane Cull- 
ing, daughter of John Culling, of Babcary 
Parish, Somersetshire, Ilchester Meeting 
of Friends consenting to their marriage 
July 29, 1685. Thomas Parsons must have 
made immediate preparations to accompany 
other members of his family to Philadel- 
phia, and there, with his wife, witnessed a 
marriage at the Friends Meeting House on 
April 8, 1686. Many of the early settlers 
of Philadelphia found it impossible to se- 
cure house accommodations for their famil- 
ies, and Thomas Parsons was one of those 
who for a time dwelt in a cave on the bank 
of the Delaware, near the foot of Arch 
street. Thomas Parsons and his brother 
John were carpenters and joiners, and 

213 



owned one of the first wind mills "upon 
the Bank before the front Lott of Joseph 
Growden," which they sold to Richard 
Townsend, who on February 22, 1689-90, 
obtained a grant of "one hundred foot of 
bank before the Proprietor's son's Lott 
that lies on the south side of said Grow- 
den's Lott to sett the Mill upon." Thomas 
Parsons resided for a time on land he own- 
ed at Third and Walnut streets, Philadel- 
phia, afterward moving to Bucks county, 
Pennsylvania, where both he and his broth- 
er John had land grants, with allottments 
of Liberty lots in Philadelphia. His wife, 
Jane Culling, died in Bucks county, and he 
again married in June, 1704, at Falls 
Monthly Meeting, his second wife being 
Mary Hinds. Soon afterward he settled in 
Oxford township, near Frankford, Phila- 
delphia, where he owned and operated a 
mill for a number of years, in January, 
1720, selling it to Jacob and Isaac Leech. 
Thomas Parsons was also the owner of five 
hundred acres of land in Salem county, 
New Jersey, and eight hundred acres on 
Duck creek, Kent county, Delaware. He 
died at his home in Oxford township in 
June, 1 72 1. 

Thomas (2), son of Thomas and Jane 
(Culling) Parsons, was born in Philadel- 
phia, about 1688, resided in the vicinity of 
his birthplace until after the death of his 
father, then moved to Virginia. He was 
named executor of his father's will, but 
was "absent" at the time of its proof, June 
17, 1 721. By the terms of the will he was 
devised the mill property in Oxford town- 
ship, but his father conveyed the estate af- 
ter drawing up his testament. The three 
children of Thomas (2) were baptized at 
Abington Presbyterian Church, the last one 
on September 8, 1722. 

Abraham, son of Thomas (2) Parsons, 
was baptized at Abington Presbyterian 
Church. March 5. 1720-1, the date on 
which his elder brother, Isaac, was baptiz- 
ed. He married Joanna, daughter of 
James and Margaret Ayres, of Lower Dub- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



lin township, Philadelphia county, and be- 
came the owner of a farm in that township, 
part of the estate of his father-in-law, 
James Ayres. Abraham Parsons died in 
December, 1768, his widow surviving him 
to February, 1779. 

Isaac, son of Abraham and Joanna 
(Ayres) Parsons, was born in Lower Dub- 
lin township, Philadelphia county, Novem- 
ber 12, 1748, died September 26, 1818. 
Soon after arriving at man's estate he lo- 
cated in Bristol township, Bucks county, 
in 1 78 1 moving to Falls township, in the 
same county, and in tTie latter place passing 
the remaining years of his life. He was a 
member of St. James Protestant Episco- 
pal Church, of Bristol, Pennsylvania, and 
he and his second wife are buried under 
the present church edifice. Isaac Parsons 
married (first) in 1777, Anstrus Shadow- 
ell, who bore him five children; (second) 
about 1791, Elizabeth Brodnax, born May 
20, 1755, died June 15, 1827. who bore him 
two children. Elizabeth was a daughter of 
Robert Brodnax, born about 1700, a scriv- 
ener who did considerable public work in 
Lower Bucks county, writing many wills 
and deeds and other documents. Robert 
Brodnax is said to have come to Bucks 
county from Henrico county, Virginia, 
where John Brodnax had settled in 1686 
and where he died in 1719, leaving a will 
of which his son Robert, a minor slightly 
under legal age, was named executor. From 
this John Brodnax, of Virginia, the family 
line is traced nine generations in an unbrok- 
en line to Robert Brodnax and his wife, 
Alicia Scappe, of Burmarsh and Godmer- 
sheim. County Kent, England, in the first 
quarter of the fifteenth century. Robert 
Brodnax married, October 9, 1734, Christ- 
iana Keen, daughter of Jonas and Frances 
(Walker) Keen, and resided in Bensalem 
township, Bucks county, where he died 
about 1784. Christiana Keen was a lineal 
descendant of Joran Kyn, who came to 
Pennsylvania with Governor John Printz 

214 



in the ship "Fama," which sailed from 
Stockholm, Sweden, August 16, 1642. 

Isaac (2), son of Isaac and Elizabeth 
(Brodnax) Parsons, was born in Falls 
township, Bucks county, Pennsylvania, 
July 3, 1794, and died there August 21, 
1 85 1. He inherited the old homestead and 
lived thereon during the greater part of his 
life, engaging for a brief period in mercan- 
tile trade. He married, April 5, 1821, 
Lydia Ann Anderson, who was born near 
Trenton, New Jersey, July 18, 1801, died 
July 19, 1901, having attained the great age 
of one hunderd years and one day, daugh- 
ter of Joseph Anderson and Sarah (Nor- 
ton) Anderson, and a descendant of Joch- 
em Andriessen, who was a son of Andries 
Jochemsen Van Albade, one of the earliest 
settlers of New Amsterdam (New York). 
Enoch Anderson, son of Jochem and great- 
great-grandfather of Lydia Ann (Ander- 
son) Parsons, was born in New York in 
1676 and was one of the chief founders of 
Trenton, New Jersey. He was a justice of 
the peace and of the courts of Burlington 
county as early as 1709, was named in 1698 
as trustee for the church and school 
grounds at Alaidenhead, and was later 
trustee of both the Lawrenceville and 
Ewing Presbyterian churches, and was ac- 
tive in the founding of these two places of 
worship. He lived on the Assaupuk creek, 
within the present limits of the city of 
Trenton, and on April 20, 1827, gave a 
portion of his land, one hundred and fifty 
feet square, in "Trent-town," to the trus- 
tees of the Presbyterian congregation, oth- 
ers contributing logs, mortar, and labor 
toward the church building, which was 
long known as "The Anderson Meeting 
House," now the First Presbyterian Church 
of Trenton, New Jersey. His wife was 
Trintje Op Dyke, of Newtown. Long Is- 
land, a granddaughter of Jansen Op Dyke, 
who came from Holland to the New Neth- 
erlands prior to 1653. The Norton family, 
to which belonged the wife of Joseph .An- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



derson, had members among the earliest 
Enghsh settlers in New Jersey. 

Ellwood Parsons, son of Isaac and Lydia 
Ann (Anderson) Parsons, and member of 
the seventh American generation of his 
family, was born in Falls township, Bucks 
county, Pennsylvania, April 5, 1822. He 
obtained his education in the Friends 
School at Fallsington and in a boarding 
school at Poughkeepsie, New York, and 
from the time he left school until his mar- 
riage made agriculture his occupation. Be- 
fore his marriage, which occurred when he 
was a young man of twenty-nine years, he 
purchased a farm in Falls township, and he 
afterward bought another of two hundred 
and seventeen acres on the New Jersey 
side of the Delaware, two miles below Bor- 
dentown, where he resided for nine years. 
Then returning to Bucks county, he was 
for three years engaged in the lumber bus- 
iness at Morrisville, in partnership with 
his brothers-in-law, Joseph C. and David 
Taylor. After retiring from his lumber 
operations Mr. Parsons purchased a coun- 
try seat near Morrisville. which he made 
his home until his death. 

He held several important positions in 
connection with financial and industrial in- 
stitutions, and from 1876 until his death 
was a member of the board of directors of 
the Bucks County Contributionship for In- 
suring Homes and Other Buildings from 
Loss by Fire, the oldest fire insurance com- 
pany in the county. Elected a director of 
the First National Bank of Trenton, New 
Jersey, in January, 1868, he "rendered a 
most faithful and untiring service there 
until his death." a period of nearly a quar- 
ter of a century, being elected to the pres- 
idency of the institution June 3, 1891. He 
was for many years a director of the Tren- 
ton City Bridge Company, and in addition 
to his official duties discharged the obliga- 
tions of numerous private positions of 
trust. 

2 



Ellwood Parsons died October 13, 1891, 
and is buried beside his wife, in the family 
plot in the Morrisville Cemetery. 

He married, March 26, 185 1, Mercy Ann 
Taylor, born July 14, 1824, died October 
II, 1890, daughter of William and Mary 
(Crozer) Taylor, the former a descendant, 
of Robert Taylor, mariner, a native of 
County Wicklow, who retired from the 
pursuit of the sea, settled in Philadelphia, 
and there died in 1798. Mary Crozer was 
a descendant of the Crozer family, who 
occupied for several generations the old 
Pennsbury Manor house and plantation 
which had been the home of William Penn. 
Through the Crozer line, Mercy Ann ( Tay- 
lor) Parsons was descended from Duncan 
Williamson, one of the earliest settlers on 
the Delaware at Dunk's Ferry, which took 
its name from him, and also was descended 
from George Brown, who was commission- 
ed a justice at the Falls by Governor An- 
dros in 1680, as well as from John Sotcher 
and his wife, Mary Lofty, who came from 
England with William Penn in 1699 and 
were long his stewards at Pennsbury Man- 
or. Children of Ellwood and Mercy Ann 
(Taylor) Parsons : William Taylor, born 
.April I. 1852. died June 24. 1875; Annie 
Crozer. born September 18, 1853, died Feb- 
ruary 9, 1895. married, September 3, 1891, 
Edward C. Williamson, of Falls township, 
Bucks county ; Mary Taylor, born June 2, 
1856, died April 25, 1909 : Lydia Ander- 
son, born April 14, 1858. died August 16, 
1914. married, February 17, 1869, Henry 
W. Comfort : George Taylor, bom May 14, 
1861, met his death by drowning, Decem- 
ber 13, 1869: Rose, born June 13, 1864, 
died September 20, 1864; Ella, bom No- 
vember 8, 1866, a resident of Philadelphia 
and a member of the Pennsylvania Socie- 
ty. Colonial Dames of .A^merica, the Gene- 
alogical Society of Pennsylvania, and the 
Swedish Colonial Society. 



15 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



GRAHAM, James A., 

Enterprising Man of Affairs. 

The death of James A. Graham, which 
occurred at his home in Pompton Plains, 
New Jersey, March 25, 1909, after an illness 
of several weeks, removed from that neigh- 
borhood one of its most highly esteemed 
and public-spirited citizens, and from the 
city of Paterson one of its well-known and 
successful business men. He was a man 
of wide acquaintanceship and many 
friends, his rugged character, quiet and un- 
assuming manner, and his high sense of 
personal integrity in all dealings with his 
fellow-men, winning for him a place in the 
hearts of those with whom he was brought 
in contact in the commercial and country 
life in which he played so prominent a part. 

Archibald Graham, grandfather of 
James A. Graham, was a resident of Pat- 
erson, New Jersey, where he was held in 
high regard by a wide circle of friends. He 
was the father of two sons and a daughter, 
the names of his sons James and Archibald, 
the latter named having passed his entire 
life in Paterson, following there the occu- 
pation of brewer, in which he was highly 
successful. 

James Graham, father of James A. Gra- 
ham, was born in Paterson, New Jersey, in 
1828, died on his farm at Pompton Plains, 
New Jersey, in 1902. He was reared, edu- 
cated and married in the city of Paterson. 
removing from there to Pompton Plains, 
in 1862, there purchasing a large farm west 
of the Pequanac river, which was known 
as the old Squire Berry farm, upon which 
he resided for about five years, then sold 
the same and purchased the Schuyler farm, 
located on the east side of the river, where 
he erected a commodious and comfortable 
house, in which his widow and daughters 
are residing at the present time (1915). 
He was a progressive and prosperous farm- 
er, realizing a goodly income from his well 
directed efforts. He was quiet and unas 
suming. particularly devoted to his home 



and family, and his demise was sincerely 
mourned by all who had the honor of his 
acquaintance. His wife, Eliza (Kidd) Gra- 
ham, is a native of Ireland, from which 
countrj' she emigrated to the United States 
at the age of fourteen years, and sixty 
years later, when seventy-four years of 
age, she returned to her native land, accom- 
panied by her daughter Sarah, and visited 
the scene of her birth, from which she de- 
rived considerable pleasure. Mr. and Mrs. 
Graham were the parents of eight children : 
Annie, resides with her mother ; James A., 
of whom further ; Hannah, died at the age 
of twenty-six years ; Maggie, died at the 
age of twenty-four years ; Isabelle, resides 
with her mother ; Sarah L., resides with 
her mother ; Mattie, died at the age of thir- 
teen years ; Andrew, resides on a farm in 
the vicinity of the homestead, married 
Louise Muller, now deceased, who bore 
him one child, James R., born in June, 
1903, now residing with his grandmother, 
Mrs. Graham. 

James .\. Graham was born on Broad- 
way, near Summer street, Paterson. New 
Jersey. September 3, 1856. He attended 
the local public school, and the New Jersey 
Business College in Newark, graduating 
from the latter in the year 1874. His first 
employment was with his uncle, Archibald 
Graham, who conducted a brewery, and up- 
on the death of the uncle. James A. was 
placed in charge of the Hamburg Avenue 
Brewery, in Paterson, and he managed the 
business so successfully that in a short time 
it was a thriving enterprise and he received 
a third interest in the concern. He later 
disposed of it to the Consolidated Malting 
and Brewing Company of Paterson, in 
which company he had an interest at the 
time of his death. Although circumstances 
brought about his line of business, his 
tastes were along entirely different lines of 
activity, he being particularly fond of ag- 
ricultural pursuits, devoting considerable 
time to the cultivation and improvement of 
the homestead farm, upon which he resid- 



216 




mr-^"^<^^^-mf»(' ■ 




^tutix ^isToncHi I^t^^ Ct^ 



i 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ed with his mother and sisters. He pur- 
chased two hundred acres adjoining his 
father's property of one hundred and fifty 
acres, and after the death of the elder Mr. 
Graham he managed it all under one head, 
erected an extensive barn and fine cream- 
ery, purchased a herd of one hundred and 
twenty-five Holstein cattle, which included 
the old world champion "Pauline Paul," 
one-time champion butter maker of the 
world. He was also a lover of horse flesh, 
being at one time a breeder of fine horses, 
a number of his horses having come from 
Lexington, Kentucky, a section famous for 
its thoroughbreds, several being now in the 
possession of his sisters on the farm. He 
attended the races at Lexington, which he 
thoroughly enjoyed. The water on the 
farm came from natural springs on the 
ridge, Mr. Graham installing a model wa- 
ter system. He displayed great ability in 
the management of his varied business af- 
fairs, accomplishing the ambition which he 
had in view when he set out to make his 
own way in the world. He was a Demo- 
crat in politics, active in the councils of his 
party, and was at one lime a candidate for 
the office of sheriflF, but was defeated. He 
held membership in the Benevolent and 
Protective Order of Elks, of Paterson. 

He possessed many lovable traits of 
character and disposition which won for 
him comrades who enjoyed his society, and 
being a man of rare good judgment, his aid 
and counsel were widely sought, and he 
never failed to meet any demand made up- 
on his friendship or good will. He was 
extremely charitable, never turning a deaf 
ear to any worthy appeal for aid, always 
considerate of old people, there being a 
number whom he looked after, calling on 
them frequently and administering in a 
substantial manner to their comfort, and he 
was extremely fond of children, lavishing 
great affection on his nephew. His mother 
and sisters, especially the former, always 
received from him the greatest considera- 

217 



tion, reverence and love, he always proving 
himself an ideal son and brother. 

The funeral services of Mr. Graham were 
largely attended, people coming from far 
and near to express their respects to his 
memory. The services were conducted by 
the Rev. Mr. Sigalfoss, of the Pompton Re- 
formed Church, and the Rev. J. S. Hogan, 
of the Reformed Church of Jersey City. 
Both clergymen spoke from personal 
knowledge of the kindly traits and upright 
character of Mr. Graham. Interment was 
in Cedar Lawn Cemetery. Prominent 
among the more than one hundred floral 
pieces, many of which were magnificent, 
was one large vacant chair of flowers which 
stood nine feet high ; the back and seat 
were composed of lilies-of-the-valley, gar- 
denias and Easter lilies, the arms and legs 
of violets. This was the tribute from the 
Paterson Brewing and Malting Company. 
In his will he remembered his relatives, a 
number of men who had been in his employ 
for a number of years, and several hos- 
pitals. 



MANNERS. David Stout, 

Financier, Pnblic Official. 

David Stout Manners, often chosen may- 
or of Jersey City, must be prominently 
named among those honored and revered 
by the best citizens as champions of the in- 
terests and rights of the community, those 
with faith in their city's future, unwearied 
in her service, vigilant, and dauntless in 
her defense. 

David Stout Manners was born at East 
Amwell, Hunterdon county, New Jersey, 
January 12. 1808, son of Captain David 
and Mary (Schenck) Manners, the former 
by occupation both a farmer and surveyor, 
who served with distinction in several im- 
portant engagements of the War of 1812. 
On the paternal side he is descended from 
John Manners, the first known ancestor in 
America, who came from Yorkshire, Eng- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



land, about the year 1700. Soon after his 
arrival he married Rebecca Stout, and set- 
tled in Hunterdon county, New Jersey. 
Mary (Schenck) Manners was a daughter 
of Captain John Schenck, a gallant officer 
of the Revolution, who, having been con- 
spicuous in previous struggles, especially 
distinguished himself by his intrepidity and 
important services in the battles of Mon- 
mouth and Princeton. 

The boyhood and youth of Mr. Manners 
were spent on his father's farm, where his 
educational advantages were mainly those 
afforded by the short winter terms of the 
village school. His parents were people of 
intelligence and culture. His father died 
in 1840, and after the sale of the home- 
stead, David S. Manners came to New 
York and there engaged in the wholesale 
grocery business. In 1848 he removed to 
Jersey City, New Jersey, and at once be- 
came prominent in politics. In 1851 he was 
elected alderman, and also became a mem- 
ber of the board of water commissioners. 
In 1852 he was elected mayor of Jersey 
City by a handsome majority, and his ser- 
vices gave widespread satisfaction, as he 
had the confidence of all his constituents, 
and was retained in office for live consec- 
utive terms, declining further honors in 
this capacity. Mayor Manners was far-see- 
ing and enthusiastic ; he proposed many 
improvements in Jersey City and achieved 
them, as far as the progress of the times 
would permit. He was a stockholder in 
various banking institutions. In 1856 he 
became a member of the American Geo- 
graphical and Statistical Society. His char- 
ities were numerous and unostentatious 

Mayor Manners married, in 1843, De- 
borah Philips Johnes, a daughter of David 
Johnes, granddaughter of Major David 
Johnes, an able officer of the Army of the 
Revolution, and a descendant of Edward 
and Anne (Griggs) Johnes, natives of Din- 
der, Somerset, England, who landed at Sa- 
lem, but soon settled at Charlestown. Mas- 
sachusetts, in 1630. In the summer of 1884. 



Mayor Manners was stricken with the 
disease which proved fatal, and on August 
19, 1884, he passed away, highly respected, 
and a conspicuous figure in the community 
and in Hudson county. New Jersey. 



DE CAMP, John, 

Distinguished Naval Officer. 

Rear Admiral John De Camp, United 
States Navy, late of Burlington, was born 
at Morristown, New Jersey, in 1812. On 
October i, 1827, he received the appoint- 
ment of midshipman in the navy, from the 
State of Florida, and was first put on ac- 
tive service in the sloop "Vandalia," of the 
Brazilian Squadron, in 1829-30. He was 
promoted to passed midshipman on June 
10, 1833. In 1837 he was on duty on the 
frigate "Constellation,"' of the West India 
Squadron, and on February 28, 1838, was 
appointed lieutenant. He was again on the 
Brazilian station in 1840, being attached to 
the sloop "Peacock," and to the sloop 
"Boston," of the same squadron, during 
1845-46. In the war with Mexico in 1846- 
47, he distinguished himself at the battle 
of Vera Cruz. In 1850 he was ordered to 
the Pacific Squadron on the sloop "Fal- 
mouth," and in 1854 to the coast of Africa, 
attached to the frigate "Constitution," re- 
ceiving his commission as commander on 
September 14, 1855. Subsequently he was 
appointed lighthouse inspector, and was at- 
tached to the Brooklyn navyyard in that 
capacity and was next appointed to the 
storeship "Relief." 

In 1 86 1, on the outbreak of the Rebel- 
lion, he was ordered to the command of the 
steam-sloop "Iroquois," on the West Gulf 
Blockading Squadron. The "Iroquois," 
which was one of the fleet of Flag-Officer 
Farragut, which made the passage of Forts 
Jackson and Philip on April 24. 1862, had 
been placed on picket duty about a mile in 
advance of the main squadron on the night 
of the 23rd. In the passage of the forts 
she was in the second division, under Cap- 



218 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



tain Bell. Early in the morning of April 
24th the "Iroquois" hotly engaged the forts, 
and shortly after four o'clock a rebel ram, 
and a gunboat which had run astern of her, 
poured into her a destructive fire of grape- 
shot and langrage, the latter being compos- 
ed mostly of copper slugs. Driving off the 
gunboat with an eleven-inch shell and a 
stand of canister, the "Iroquois" proceed- 
ed, and in a little while, still under a terri- 
bly severe fire from Fort St. Philip, as she 
was passing that fort, she was attacked by 
five or six rebel steamers, but giving each a 
broadside of shell as she passed, succeeded 
in completely destroying them. Four miles 
farther down the river she captured forty 
rebel soldiers and a well-equipped gunboat. 
The "Iroquois" during the fight was badly 
injured in her hull, besides having eight of 
her men killed and twenty-four wounded. 
From this time forward Commander De 
Camp took active part in all the engage- 
ments on the Mississippi up to and includ- 
ing the capture of Vicksburg. He was 
commissioned captain July 16, 1862, for 
gallantry at New Orleans. In 1863-64 he 
commanded the frigate "Wabash," of the 
South Atlantic Squadron, and was commis- 
sioned commodore September 28, 1866. He 
was placed in charge of the "Potomac" 
store-ship, during 1866-67 ^t Pensacola, 
and performed his last active duty as com- 
mander of the same vessel while she was 
stationed at Philadelphia as receiving ship 
in 1868-69. He was made rear-admiral on 
the retired list on July 13, 1870. Eighteen 
of the forty-three years he was in the ser- 
vice he passed in active duties at sea, being 
known during that time as one of the brav- 
est and ablest of the old school of naval 
officers. An illustration of his bravery is 
given in the fact that, on one occasion, 
while ill, he caused himself to be fastened 
in the chains of his vessel during an en- 
gagement, and lost part of one of his ears 
by a piece of shell from a rebel mortar. 

In 1871 Admiral De Camp took up his 
residence in Burlington, and, as regularly 



as his impaired health would permit, attend- 
ed the service there of St. Mary's Episco- 
pal Church, having during the closing years 
of his life given serious attention to relig- 
ious matters. A day was fixed for his pub- 
lic baptism in that church, but the event 
had to be postponed by reason of an attack 
of illness. He was, however, baptized by 
the Rev. Dr. Hills, rector of St. Mary's, 
while lying on his sick bed, on June 14, 
1875. He died ten days after, aged sixty- 
three years, and was buried at Morristown, 
New Jersey. 



RANSOM, Stephen Billings, 

Prominent lia-wyer. 

Stephen Billings Ransom, one of the 
most eminent and successful lawyers of 
Jersey Gty, and a recognized factor in 
political circles in the State of New Jersey, 
was born at Salem, Connecticut, October 
12, 1814, son of Amasa Ransom, a farmer, 
long resident in that place. 

Stephen B. Ransom was educated at Ba- 
con Academy, Colchester, Connecticut, con- 
tinuing his studies there until 1835, after 
which he was engaged in teaching, which 
vocation he followed for one year at Mend- 
ham and in other towns, removing to the 
State of New Jersey in 1836. In 1841 he 
began the study of law. under the direction 
of Phineas B. Kennedy, then county clerk 
of Belvidere, and completed his course un- 
der the supervision of William Thompson, 
of Somerville. He was admitted to the bar 
of New Jersey, September 5, 1844. For 
three years he practiced his profession at 
New Germantown, Hunterdon county, and 
in April, 1848. he removed to Somerville, 
where he resided and practiced law until 
1856. Two years previously, in 1854, he 
also opened an office in Jersey City, to 
which city he subsequently removed his 
residence, and was looked upon as a shrewd 
practitioner, true to his convictions, yet 
just to those who differed, positive, yet 
kind. In politics he was originally a Dem- 



219 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ocrat, and supported Van Buren for presi- 
dent in 1848. Four years later, he became 
a Republican and voted for Franklin 
Pierce. He supported Horace Greeley for 
the presidency against the re-election of 
Ulysses S. Grant. In 1845 and 1846 he 
commanded a company of militia at New 
Germantown. Mr. Ransom was a man of 
strong physique, was as careful of his 
health as of his law cases, in their success- 
ful results, and left a heritage in an honest 
name, appreciated by his contemporaries, 
a man of abundant labors, and truly Chris- 
tian character, so that his appearance, as 
well as his memory, will be cherished. 

Mr. Ransom married (first) May 14, 
1845, in Hunterdon county. New Jersey, 
Maria C. Apgar, daughter of Jacob Apgar, 
who went to California, on the discovery 
of gold, and died there in 1849. The fol- 
lowing year Mrs. Ransom died. Mr. Ran- 
som married (second) in July, 1856, Eliza 
W. Hunt, daughter of Stephen R. Hunt, 
a lawyer of Somerville, New Jersey. Mr. 
Ransom died December 3, 1893, leaving a 
widow, five sons and two daughters. 



BORCHERLING, Charles G. A., 

Oldest Member of Essex County Bar. 

To live long is a distinction, to live long 
and well is an honor. To walk the earth 
for eighty-five years has been a distinction 
borne by many, but to few has been the 
signal honor given to carry that weight of 
years so honorably as did the eminent law- 
yer, Charles G. A. Borcherling. of New- 
ark, New Jersey, who at his death was the 
oldest member of the Essex county bar, 
and was no whit less able, clearminded, and 
effective as an advocate than his most em- 
inent contemporaries, all of them many 
years his juniors. For half a century he 
was a commanding figure at the bar, passing 
from youth to middle age to full maturity 
and then to the rewards of respect and po- 
sition due his attainments, his honorable 
life, and his weight of years. With the 



years he grew in knowledge, in legal acu- 
men, and in power, in the love and respect 
of his associates and in the confidence of 
influential as well as humble clients. He 
loved the law but he loved justice more, 
and his greatest joy was not that he had 
won a cause but that justice had been done. 
Although deeply concerned in the civic and 
temporal welfare of his city, he never 
sought nor accepted public office. As he re- 
tained true affection for the land of his 
birth, so did he glory in the freedom, op- 
portunity, and life of his adopted country, 
and no truer citizen breathed the air of 
freedom than Charles Gustav Adoph Bor- 
cherling. 

Charles G. A. Borcherling was born in 
Berlin, Germany, January 11, 1827, and 
died of apoplexy in Newark, New Jersey, 
February 21, 191 2. He was a son of 
Charles Frederick and Christina (Hell- 
mund) Borcherling. Hiis father was ex- 
empted from military service in the Ger- 
man army as a mark of favor, his brother 
having fallen under Bliicher at the battle 
of Waterloo. He came to the United 
States when his son, Qiarles G. A. Borch- 
erling, was young, but afterward sent the 
latter back to Germany to complete his 
classical education. After finishing his 
studies in Germany, the then young man 
began the study of law in Newark, New 
Jersey, entering the office of the eminent 
lawyer, Cortlandt Parker. He was admit- 
ted to the New Jersey bar at the June term, 
i860, as an attorney, and at the November 
term, 1863. as a counsellor. In i860 he be- 
gan general practice in Newark, was in 
turn admitted to all State and Federal 
courts of the district, and for fifty years 
was one of the most successful of lawyers, 
conducting a very extensive, lucrative prac- 
tice. His professional career was one of 
honor and strict observance of legal ethics. 
He was wise in counsel, untiring in the 
preparation of his cases, and most force- 
ful in their presentation to court or jury. 
He depended entirely upon the legal 



220 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



strength and effective presentation of his 
cause, never by chicanery or inferior prac- 
tice seeking to befog the issue. He was 
fair and most considerate of the rights of 
opposing counsel, but dealt sledge hammer 
blows in open legal argument. In his later 
years he surrendered the heavier burdens 
of practice, but was ever the sound legal 
adviser of clients and a valuable consultant 
of many lawyers, who drew largely upon 
his learning, experience, and wisdom. 

Mr. Borcherling was a Republican in 
politics, and a longtime member of Trinity 
Protestant Episcopal Church. He was one 
of the oldest members of St. John's Lodge, 
No. I, Free and Accepted Masons, and of 
the Essex Club. He was an old and valued 
member of the various bar associations of 
the city and district. He was vice-presi- 
dent of the American Bar Association for 
a number of years, and was interested in 
many societies and organizations of New- 
ark. 

He married (first) August 12, 1869, in 
Newark, Eliza S., daughter of James M. 
and Phoebe Quinby, who died in 1875, 
leaving a son, Frederick Adolph, born Oc- 
tober 4, 1871, a member of the Essex coun- 
ty bar and, until his father's death, his law 
partner. Mr. Borcherling married (sec- 
ond) July 23, 1885, in New York City, 
Mary Latimer, daughter of William and 
Caroline (Barton) Ruxton. The funeral 
services of Mr. Borcherling were conduct- 
ed by Right Reverend Edwin S. Lines, 
Bishop of Newark, after which he was laid 
at rest in Mount Pleasant Cemetery. 



GILCHRIST, Robert, 

Iiawyer, State Official. 

The late HOn. Robert Gilchrist, a lawyer 
of Jersey City, who attained notable success 
in his profession, winning a high and hon- 
orable place among his associates, was a 
native of Jersey City, born August 12, 1825, 
died in Jersey City, in July, 1888. 

He read law with John Annin and Isaac 

221 



W. Scudder, was admitted to the New Jer- 
sey bar as an attorney in 1847, later be- 
came a counselor, and subsequently was a 
partner of Mr. Scudder. Always taking an 
interest in public aflfairs, he was called up- 
on to discharge some high and responsible 
trusts. Politically he was a member of the 
Whig party until it was merged into the 
Republican organization. In 1866 he be- 
came the Democratic candidate for Con- 
gress in the Fifth District. The Republi- 
cans, however, were successful in electing 
their nominee, George A. Halsey. In May, 
1869, he was nominated by Governor Ran- 
dolph as Attorney-General of the State, to 
succeed George M. Robeson ; was appoint- 
ed Secretary of the Navy. In April, 1873, 
he was appointed by Grovernor Parker on a 
special commission to revise the constitution 
of the State. In January, 1875, he retired 
from the Attorney-Generalship, and was 
succeeded by ex-Governor Joel Parker. 
During the same month his name was 
brought before the Democratic caucus of 
the Legislature for the nomination for 
United States Senator, and he received 
large support, but the Governor, Theodore 
F. Randolph, eventually obtained the nom- 
ination, and was elected. 

Mr. Gilchrist was one of the most dra- 
matic and effective pleaders at the bar ; he 
made an interesting and brilliant campaign, 
whenever nominated, and the fight made 
for Mr. Gilchrist was of such a character 
as to convince the State House leaders that 
they had no mean antagonist in the oppo- 
site leaders who put Mr. Gilchrist in the 
field. His contemporaries were Theodore 
F. Randolph, who achieved the office of 
United States Senator in 1875 ; Mr. Mc- 
Pherson. and who also became ambitious 
for the United States senatorship, desiring 
to succeed Frederick T. Frelinghuysen. 

Attorney-General Gilchrist was an im- 
posing looking man, very striking in ap- 
pearance, having the advantage in this re- 
spect, and in his fine voice, as a speaker, 
over some of his colleagues, prominent in 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



office, and as aspirants for office. The 
State of New Jersey was represented at 
that time by General Sewell, Frederick A. 
Potts, Garret A. Hobart, Jonathan Dixon, 
of Jersey City, of the Repubhcan party ; 
Leon Abbett, of Jersey City, WiUiam Wal- 
ter Phelps, of Bergen county, John W. 
Taylor, of Essex county, John W. Griggs, 
a lawyer, of Bergen county, and ex-Gover- 
nor Bedle, all political comrades and op- 
ponents, with others equally prominent, al- 
ready mentioned. 

Mr. Gilchrist married, late in life, while 
prominent in office, Fredericka Beardsley. 
They were the parents of two sons and two 
daughters. 



YOUNG, Edward F. C, 

Financier, Corporation Officer. 

The late Edward F. C. Young, who was 
a man of energy, enterprise, determination, 
and the ability to recognize and improve 
opportunities, characteristics which make 
for success in every undertaking in which 
they engage, traced his ancestry to the Rev. 
John Young, a native of England, who left 
that country for the New World, arriving 
in New Haven, Connecticut, in 1638, and 
two years later was one of the founders 
of Southold, Long Island, and there spent 
the remainder of his days, died and was 
buried there, his grave being kept green by 
each succeeding generation. Another pa- 
ternal ancestor was Ephraim Young, chap- 
lain of the State militia during the Revolu- 
tionary War. On the maternal side he was 
of Scotch descent. 

New Jersey has been the home of the 
Young family for many years past, the 
grandfather and father of Edward F. C. 
Young having been born in the same room, 
in the old homestead, in Morris county, in 
which he himself first saw the light of day. 
At the age of nine years, two years after 
the death of his father, Edward F. C. 
Young removed to Jersey City, and was 
there educated in the public schools. A 

222 



rural career was altogether too dull and 
unattractive for a man of his active tem- 
perament, and so it was that he moved city- 
ward. He began his business career with 
the Hudson County Bank, November i, 
1852, where six months previously the late 
.Augustus A. Hardenburgh, who himself 
acnieved distinction in public life, had tak- 
en a desk. An offer of the tellership tempt- 
ed him twelve years later to the First Na- 
tional Bank, which was just then on the 
eve of absorbing the old Mechanics and 
Traders Bank. He became assistant cash- 
ier in 1865, cashier in 1874, and on the 
death of the late Alexander Hamilton Wal- 
lis, in 1879, was made its president. Mr. 
Young knew men at a glance, and by his 
shrewd business management had, when he 
was summoned to the front in the guberna- 
torial campaign, built the bank into the most 
important institution in the State. His co- 
operation was sought by many large enter- 
prises both in New Jersey and in New 
York, and he was associated with J. P. 
Morgan, Thomas F. Ryan and other finan- 
cial leaders in many extensive transactions. 
At his death he was an officer and director 
in upwards of thirty institutions. With the 
late Charles B. Thurston, Mr. Young form- 
ed the Bergen & Jersey City Street Rail- 
way Company, and in 1893, with the late 
B. M. Shanley, organized the Consolidated 
Traction Company, which acquired many 
lines in Jersey City, Newark and Elizabeth, 
and was the first president of the company. 
In 1896 the traction company was absorbed 
by the Public Service Corporation, and Mr. 
Young retired. His connection with the 
Dixon Company extended over a period of 
nearly thirty years. He was an officer in 
the following companies : Acker Process J 
Company, of which he was vice-president ' 
and director; American Graphite Company, 
president and director ; First National Bank 
of Jersey City, president and director; Jo- 
seph Dixon Crucible Company, president 
and director ; Pavonia Trust Company of 
Jersey City, president and director ; North 



4i#>^ 





i 




^:^-^<^:*52*?<^y2^I^-«<^^^?^:-i5«^'^ — 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Jersey Land Company, president and 
director, and in addition to this was a di- 
rector in the following: Bankers Trust 
Company of New York, Bayonne Trust 
Company, Bergen & Lafayette Trust Com- 
pany, Jersey City; Bowling Green Trust 
Company, New York ; Brooklyn Annex, Co- 
lonial Life Insurance Company, Hoboken 
and Manhattan Railroad Company, Hudson 
County Gas Company, Liberty National 
Bank, New York; New Jersey Title Guar- 
antee & Trust Company, Jersey City; New 
York and New Jersey Railroad Company, 
North Jersey Street Railway Company, 
Public Service Corporation of New Jersey, 
People's Safe Deposit and Trust Company 
and the West Hudson Trust Company, 
Harrison. 

His business lines reached out in every 
direction, and through them, he had gradu- 
ally grown, almost without observing it 
himself, to be an influential {>olitical factor. 
The lines of politics in Hudson county led 
as unfailingly, as the lines of business, to 
his ornate little office in the First National 
Bank building. While attending to his bank 
duties, he managed to serve as city treasur- 
er from 1865 to 1870. He was compli- 
mented by being elected first to the city 
council, then to the board of freeholders, 
and was the first director-at-large in the 
history of Hudson county affairs. In 1880 
he was one of the electors who cast the 
vote of New Jersey for Winfield S. Han- 
cock for President of the United States, 
and in 1888 represented New Jersey in the 
National convention that gave Grover 
Qeveland his second nomination for the 
presidency. Mr. Young loomed up for the 
governorship, but was defeated in the con- 
vention at Trenton by Senator Werts. He 
was the New Jersey director of railroads 
for five years. He was identified with many 
charitable organizations, and was one of 
the founders of the Children's Home. His 
contributions to St. John's Episcopal 
Church were large, and he also contributed 
$25,000 to Emory Church, and $1,000 for 

223 



a bell for the new All Saints Church, in La- 
fayette. He was a member of the New Jersey 
Historical Society, the New Jersey Society 
of the Order of Founders and Patriots of 
America, and was entitled to membership 
in the Sons of the Revolution. 

Mr. Young married, July 26, 1854, Har- 
riet M. Strober, who survives him, as does 
also a son, Edward L. Young, and a daugh- 
ter, Hattie Louise, wife of George W. 
Smith, president of the First National 
Bank, Jersey City, and they reside on the 
Heights, Jersey City. Mr. Young passed 
away at his home. Boulevard and Glen- 
wood avenue, Jersey City, December 6, 
1908. 



KUNSMAN, Amos, 

Prominent Business Man, Charoh Worker. 

A man of action rather than of words, 
of business talents and untiring energy, of 
actual achievements that advanced the 
wealth and prosperity of the community, is 
a very fair description of the late Amos 
Kunsman, of Trenton, New Jersey. He 
was a man who was always intensely in 
earnest, and this power of concentration 
enabled him to accomplish a mass of work 
which would have swamped one less adapt- 
ed to a strenuous life. 

Amos Kunsman was born in Bucks coun- 
ty, Pennsylvania, November 9, 1840, and 
died at his home in Trenton. New Jersey, 
March 15, 1914. His education, an elemen- 
tary one acquired in the district schools 
near his birth-place, was supplemented by 
home study in his leisure hours, and his 
keen observation of men and manners 
throughout his life. He was sixteen years 
of age when he began his first appearance 
in business life in Elaston, Pennsylvania. 
Later he was in New Brunswick, and then 
came to Trenton, New Jersey which was 
from that time forth to be the field of his 
mature activities. He made his entrance 
into the business life of the city as an em- 
ploye of Baker & Brother, who were the 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



proprietors of a dry goods store on East 
State street. Twenty years were spent with 
this company, during which time his faith- 
ful discharge of the duties which fell to 
his share met with appreciation of a sat- 
isfactory nature. At the end of this period 
Mr. Kunsman had amassed a considerable 
capital, and he decided to engage in busi- 
ness for himself. He accordingly associ- 
ated himself in a business partnership with 
Isaac Cole, the firm name being Cole & 
Kunsman, and a store was opened on North 
Broad street which was conducted success- 
fully for a term of five years, when the 
partnership was dissolved. Mr. Kunsman 
continued in the dry goods business for 
himself, and later took as a partner John 
Taylor Leigh, the business being conducted 
under the style of Kunsman & Leigh, in 
a store located on South Broad street, al- 
most opposite Factory street. Subsequently 
this partnership was dissolved and the busi- 
ness sold to Messrs. Melrose & Lee and Mr. 
Kunsman retired from active business life, 
a few years prior to his death. In all, Mr. 
Kunsman had been identified with the dry 
goods business more than half a century. 
Outside of his business interests, Mr. 
Kunsman took no part in the public aflfairs 
of the city, having no desire for pub- 
lic office, .and deeming that he was best 
serving the community by furthering its 
business progress. Much of his time, how- 
ever, was given to religious work. For a 
long time he was an active member of the 
First Methodist Episcopal Church, later 
joining St. Paul's Methodist Episcopal 
Church, his activities being of great benefit 
to this institution. Patriotism was a strong 
factor in his character, and this prompted 
him to offer his services to his country. As 
a member of a Pennsylvania volunteer reg- 
iment, at the time of the threatened inva- 
sion of Pennsylvania by the Confederate 
troops, he participated in many of the most 
important battles of the period. Mr. Kuns- 
man married Adeline Bellerjean, and they 
had one daughter Leola. 

224 



For a long time Mr. Kunsman had been 
a member of the Official Board of St. Paul's 
Methodist Episcopal Church, and at the 
time of his death the following resolutions 
were drawn up by this body to testify to 
the esteem and love in which he was held: 

Whereas, God in His inscrutable wisdom having 
called our beloved brother and co-worker in 
Christ to his glorious inheritance, and 

Whereas, Realizing that in the transition of 
Brother Kunsman St. Paul's M. E. Church loses 
a kind and loving friend, one whose Christian in- 
tegrity and gentleness endeared him to all, whose 
counsel and judgment were of incalculable value, 
and whose munificence in all branches of church 
work was of a quality which could emanate only 
from a heart imbued with a desire for the ad- 
vancement of God's kingdom on earth, there- 
fore be it 

Resolved, That the Official Board, representing 
the constituency of St. Paul's M. E. Church, do 
hereby extend to the family of Brother Amos 
Kunsman, in this their great affliction, their most 
sincere and heartfelt condolence. 

"The Lord has given and the Lord has taken 
away. Blessed be the name of the Lord." 
Levi H. Morris, 
Elijah Coles, 
Elma E. Sutphin. 



HASBROUCK, Dr. Washington, 

Leader in Edncatiomal Affairi. 

Dr. Washington Hasbrouck, who died in 
1895, has inseparably linked his name with 
the Hasbrouck Institute of Jersey City. 
This school was founded in 1856. For ten 
years it occupied a small building at Nos. 
53-55 Mercer street, was conducted as a 
private school, and patronized by the lead- 
ing families of the city. Then the school 
removed to the Lyceum Building, No. 109 
Grand street, and ten years later, in 1876, 
Dr. Hasbrouck severed his connection with 
it, the management passing into the hands 
of Charles C. Stimets, A.M. and Horace A. 
Wait, A. B., the principals, who built up 
a large and flourishing school. A fine build- 
ing was erected on the Heights, named The 
Hasbrouck Institute in honor of Dr. Has- 
brouck. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Dr. Hasbrouck was from Poughkeepsie, 
New York, originally, belonging to an old 
aristocratic family. As a promoter of the 
highest standards of cjvic achievements and 
educational developments. Dr. Hasbrouck 
could not be surpassed. He was a man of 
rare culture and ability, a leader in col- 
legiate affairs, and an inspiration to Hud- 
son county in scientific and cultured lines. 



HARDENBERGH, Augustus A., 

Financier, Member of Congress. 

The death of Hon. Augustus A. Harden- 
bergh, which occurred October 5, 1889, at 
his late home in Jersey City, removed from 
that section of New Jersey one of its most 
widely known men, his activities in Hud- 
son county, in public and private ways, 
making his name a household word from 
Bull's Ferry to Bergen Point. His record 
in Congress brought him into close and in- 
timate relations with the chief men of New 
York and Pennsylvania, who held him in 
as high esteem as did his fellow citizens. 

Augustus A. Hardenbergh was born in 
New Brunswick, New Jersey, May 18, 
1830, son of the late Cornelius L. Harden- 
bergh, LL.D., of New Brunswick, who was 
during his life time a leading member of 
the New Jersey bar, and for many years 
prominently connected with Rutgers Col- 
lege, of which institution Rev. Jacob R. 
Hardenbergh, D.D., his grandfather, was 
the first president, also the founder. 

Augustus A. Hardenbergh entered Rut- 
gers College in 1844, but continued in col- 
lege only one year, the failing health and 
eyesight of his father rendering necessary 
the son's assistance as amanuensis. Two 
years later he entered a counting house in 
New York City, and took up his residence 
in Jersey City, New Jersey. In 1852 he 
became connected with the Hudson County 
Bank, and in 1858 was appointed its cash- 
ier, and in 1878 was elected its president, 
a position he held up to the time of his 
decease. For some years previous to his 

22s 
II-15 



appointment as cashier he had manifested 
an interest in politics, and in 1853 was elect- 
ed by the Democrats to the New Jersey 
Legislature from Jersey City, and although 
quite a young man, took an active part in 
legislative afifairs. During the session of 
1854 he acquired a favorable State reputa- 
tion by securing the passage of the general 
banking act and by opposing the Camden 
& Amboy railroad monopoly. He was five 
times elected alderman of Jersey City, in 
1857-1862, inclusive, and during the 
last year he was chosen president of the 
common council, and also served as chair- 
man of the war committee. In 1868 he 
removed to Bergen, and during the first 
year's residence there was almost unani- 
mously elected to the town council. Dur- 
ing the same year he was elected State Di- 
rector of Railroads by the New Jersey Leg- 
islature, and in 1872 represented the Fourth 
Congressional District as their delegate to 
the Baltimore National Convention, which 
nominated Horace Greeley for president, 
and in the same year was chosen president 
of the Northern Railroad Company of New 
Jersey. He again removed to Hudson 
county in 1873, and ever afterward resided 
there. His residence in Jersey City was at 
the corner of Barrow and Montgomery 
streets, a very beautiful section of Jersey 
City at that time, near Van Vorst Park. In 
1874, at the solicitation of his friends, he 
became the Democratic candidate for Con- 
gress, and although the district had gone 
Republican two years previously by over 
one thousand majority, he was elected by 
nearly five thousand majority. He was 
again elected in 1876, 1878 and 1880, and 
during this period he succeeded in making 
Jersey City a port of entry. In 1883 he 
was appointed a member of the Board of 
Finance and Taxation, and in the follow- 
ing year he was appointed by Governor Ab- 
bett as a trustee of the State Reform 
School. 

Mr. Hardenbergh was a cultivated gen- 
tleman, and as a representative reflected 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



honor on himself and his State of New- 
Jersey. He was a ready and graceful 
speaker, possessed a large amount of mag- 
netism, was courteous and courtly, of gen- 
ial manner, and therefore was very popu- 
lar, said to be one of the most popular men 
that Hudson county ever knew. Among 
his associates were Justice Jonathan Dix- 
on. William Muirheid, Judge Bedle and 
Flavel McGee. Mr. Hardenbergh's widow 
survives him, also his son, John R. Harden- 
bergh, who is president of the Commer- 
cial Trust Company, also president of the 
Hudson County Bank, formerly his fath- 
er's bank. 



LEBKUECHER, Julius A., 

Manufacturer, Financier, Public Official. 

Julius A. Lebkuecher was born in the 
Province of Baden, Germany. February 9, 
1844, and died at his home in Newark, New 
Jersey, May 13. 1913- He was a son of 
Francis and Louise (Kurz) Lebkuecher, 
who emigrated to the United States in the 
year 1848, taking up their residence in Jer- 
sey City, New Jersey, from whence they 
removed to Newark, in the same State, in 
1852. 

Julius A. Lebkuecher attended the public 
schools, completing his studies in the high 
school of Newark, from which he was 
graduated in the class of i860. He at 
once turned his attention to the mastery 
of the jewelry trade, and by strict applica- 
tion and perseverance became thoroughly 
familiar with the various branches of the 
trade, and in 1869 was competent to embark 
in business on his own account, joining 
George Krementz in the organization of 
the firm of Krementz & Company, whose 
business constantly increased in volume 
and importance year by year, and is now 
one of the most extensive and most suc- 
cessful business enterprises of its kind in 
the City of Newark. In connection with 
his other interests Mr. Lebkuecher was 



vice-president and a director of the Union 
National Bank, the Franklin Savings In- 
stitution, and was president of the Four- 1 
teenth Ward Building & Loan Association. 

In public affairs Mr. Lebkuecher was 
quite prominent, having been called upon 
to fill a number of positions of trust and 
responsibility, but he never consented to 
accept public office until the spring of 1894, 
when his name was placed on the Republi- 
can ticket as a mayoralty canditlate in New- \ 
ark. He was elected by a majority of al- 
most five thousand votes, this being an un- 
mistakable evidence of the trust and con- 
fidence reposed in him as a man of splen- 
did business qualifications and unquestion- 
ed integrity. He entered upon the duties 
of his office. May 7, 1894, and in the begin- 
ning of his administration placed the gen- 
eral business of the city upon a business 
footing. Extravagances in the purchase of 
supplies were cut off; the cost of sewers, 
paving and other improvements was lessen- 
ed : the business methods of the department 
were put on a more practical and therefore 
economical basis ; the long outstanding 
claims due the city from various corpora- 
tions were collected, including one of 
$89,000 against two railroad corporations, 
which money was devoted to the increase 
of public school accommodations in the 
city ; and he secured the passage of a State 
law encouraging street paving. Consider- 
ing the fact that great improvements were 
made during his term and that there had 
been but a slight increase in taxable valua- 
tions, owing to the depressed conditions of 
the times, the tax rate of the city was re- 
duced, rather than increased. Mr. Leb- 
kuecher, however, was not successful in 
his candidacy for re-election, although sup- 
ported by the most substantial and progres- 
sive citizens, those who had the future wel- 
fare of the city at heart, as had Mr. Leb- , 
kuecher. I 

Mr. Lebkuecher married (first) July 
20. 1870, Mary Hayden, who died in 1893, 



226 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



leaving children, Frank A and Carl Head- 
ley Lebkueclier. He married (second) 
Mrs. Louise Buerger. 

This brief resume of Mr. Lebkuecher's 
many spheres of activity proves the broad- 
ness of his mental vision and, whether con- 
sidered as employe, employer, business man 
or executive head of a large and thriving 
city, he was ever found true to himself and 
true to his fellows. Through a long period 
of time he was accounted among those 
whose enterprise and splendid judgment 
contributed to the general prosperity and 
he bore the honorable record of a conscien- 
tious man who, by his upright life won the 
confidence of all with whom he had come 
in contact. His devotion to the public good 
was unquestioned, and arose from a sin- 
cere interest in the welfare of his fellow 



FLEMMING, James, Jr., 

IiaivyeT, Lecturer, Litteratenr, 

James Flemming Jr., eldest son of James 
Flemming Sr., and grandson of Isaac Edge, 
was born in Jersey City, January 24, 1834. 
He came from an English family, his fath- 
er having emigrated from Lamworth, Eng- 
land, and settled in Jersey City, about the 
year 1830. His grandfather sailed in the 
British navy under the great commander 
Nelson and was wounded in the battle of 
Copenhagen. His grandmother was a West, 
related to the Earl of Delaware. His moth- 
er, Alice Amy Edge, was a daughter of 
Isaac Edge, who fled from England on ac- 
count of Republican principles ; came to 
America and settled in Jersey City ; he 
served in the War of 1812. 

James Flemming Jr. received an academ- 
ic education, attending first the old school 
in Sussex street ; afterwards graduated at 
the high school in the city of New York 
and prepared to enter the University, but 
instead took up the study of medicine. This 
he pursued for a short time, and then en- 
tered the law office of Edgar B. Wake- 



man, Esq., and was admitted to the bar as 
an attorney at the February term, 1855, 
and as a counsellor at the June term, 1858. 
He entered upon practice in partnership 
with his former preceptor, Edgar B. Wake- 
man, Esq., which continued for some years. 
He then formed a partnership with Wash- 
ington B. Williams, Esq., and upon the 
termination of the same he opened an office 
by himself, from that time on practiced in- 
dependently. 

The first distinction which Mr. Flem- 
ming won after he came to the bar was the 
defense of Margaret Hogan, who was in- 
dicted for the murder of her infant child. 
John P. Vroom, Esq., was associated with 
him, they having been assigned by the court 
to defend the woman. Mr. Flemming 
brought into this cause all of his youthful 
ardor and zeal. He was untiring in research 
for every scrap of evidence which would 
tend to throw light on the woman's inno- 
cence, and so able and thorough was the de- 
fense that the woman was acquitted, and 
her counsel highly commended by the pub- 
lic press of that day. Among the other fa- 
mous cases in which he was engaged was 
the defense of Jennie E. Smith and Covert 
D. Bennett, indicted for the murder of Mrs. 
Smith's husband. Before the coroner's 
jury Mr. Flemming and Mr. Edgar B. 
Wakeman appeared for the prisoners, and 
at their trial Messrs. Charles H. Winfield, 
William T. Hoflfman, Gilbert Collins and 
Mr. Flemming appeared for the defense. 
This was one of the most celebrated mur- 
der trials of modern times. The evidence 
was entirely circumstantial, and the de- 
fendants were convicted of murder in the 
first degree. The case went to the Court 
of Errors and Appeals, where the verdict 
was set aside, and upon a second trial they 
were acquitted. While all the counsel in 
the cause bore their full share of responsi- 
bility, none were more active and zealous 
than Mr. Flemming, and it is understood 
that the successful exceptions upon which 
the verdict was set aside originated with 



Z27 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



him. It can be truly said of Mr. Flemming 
that in the defense of a person on trial for 
murder, no fee however large, could incite 
him to greater zeal and energy in the de- 
fence of the case than the life of the pris- 
oner placed at the bar of the court, and he 
was very successful in his cases. Mr. Flem- 
ming conducted some very important civil 
suits which had gone through all the courts 
of the State, and in which he won much 
distinction. He took a leading part in all 
reform movements and was shrewd in de- 
tecting fraud in cases involving revenue 
matters. He was a man of literary tastes 
and extensive reading, delivering lectures 
occasionally, upon literary subjects and 
travels, as he visited Europe three different 
times and made the principal cities and ob- 
jects of interest a study. Many of his ob- 
servations were embodied in letters to the 
press. These letters were instructive and 
highly enjoyed by the citizens of Jersey 
City, particularly those relating to the Pas- 
sion Play which he witnessed at Oberam- 
mergau. 

Mr. Flemming married Miss Sarah La- 
tou, daughter of Robert Latou, Esq., of 
New York City. They had three children: 
Robert, Alice and Sallie, all residents of 
Jersey City. Mr. Flemming died very sud- 
denly at Monmouth Beach, New Jersey, on 
October i, 1894. 



MANNERS, Edwin, 

Iiawyer, Iieader in Commnnity Affairs. 

Foremost among the eminent, distin- 
guished and successful lawyers of Jersey 
City, must be mentioned the late Edwin 
Manners, son of David Stout and Debor- 
ah Philips (Johnes) Manners, grandson of 
Captain David and Mary (Schenck) Man- 
ners, and of David Johnes, and great-grand- 
son of John Manners, and of Major David 
Johnes. 

Edwin Manners was born in Jersey City, 
New Jersey, March 6, 1855. He was edu- 

228 



cated in public school No. 3 ; Hasbrouck 
Institute, Jersey City ; Mount Pleasant Mil- 
itary Academy, Sing Sing, New York ; and 
Princeton University, receiving the degree 
of A.B. in 1877 and that of A.M. in 1880. 
At these three institutions he was connect- 
ed as editor with the "Quill," the "Mount 
Pleasant Reveille," and the "Nassau Liter- 
ary Magazine," and in them also won prizes 
for composition and speaking. Afterwards 
he became a writer of marked ability, con- 
tributing articles of both prose and verse 
to leading magazines and newspapers. He 
read law with the firm of Collins & Corbin, 
of Jersey City, received the degree of 
LL.B. from Columbia Law School, and was 
admitted to the bar of New Jersey at Tren- 
ton as an attorney in November, 1880, and 
as a counselor in November, 1883. He en- 
gaged in active practice in Jersey City, 
where he was prominent in securing an 
adequate water supply for that place, and 
m other civic improvements. Re was also 
distinguished in military service, and as a 
surveyor of lands. He accumulated a val- 
uable library, in addition to the rare books 
belonging to his father and family. He 
was a Democrat in politics, and a member 
of the Jersey City Board of Trade, the Sons 
of the American Revolution, and the Pal- 
ma and Princeton clubs. He was also a 
member and vestryman of St. Mark's Epis- 
copal Church, Jersey City, to which he be- 
queathed one thousand dollars, also gifts 
to the University of New York and other 
institutions. 

Mr. Manners passed away in 1910, sur- 
vived by his sisters, Marie, Helen and 
Blanche Manners, to whom he was devot- 
edly attached. 



DUBAR, Charles Louis, 

Dental Practitioner and Instmctor. 

Charles Louis Dubar, one of the most ac- 
complished and successful surgeon dentists 
of his day, whose home was in East 



I 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Orange, New Jersey, was a son of Matthi- 
as and Stephanie Dubar, and was born in 
Paris, Frrnce, February 24, 1852. 

He was young when he came to this 
country, and was graduated from St. Fran- 
cis Xavier Academy, New York. In 1875 
he was graduated from the Dental College 
of New York, and had the honor of being 
valedictorian of his class. On September 
25, 1876, Dr. Dubar was appointed Mem- 
bre Honoraire de I'lnstitut du Progres. In 
1881 the degree of Master of Dental Sur- 
gery was conferred upon him by the New 
York State Dental Society. He was one 
of the most prominent dental surgeons in 
the city of New York, and lectured on this 
subject in the New York College of Den- 
tistry and the French Hospital. His pre- 
ceptor in his own studies was the late Dr. 
W. H. Dwinelle. Dr. Dubar was a mem- 
ber of the First District Dental Society of 
New York, of the Royal Arcanum, and of 
Court Bonny Brook, No. 284, Foresters of 
America. His religious membership was 
with the Church of St. Vincent de Paul, of 
New York City. 

Dr. Dubar married. November 23, 1877, 
Miss Constance A. Lastayo, who died No- 
vember 7, 1895, leaving three children: 
Mrs. L. Mungar, born in September, 1878 ; 
Mrs. E. Hare, born in December, 1885 ; 
and Constance Dubar, born in November, 
1895. 

On June 10, 1897, Dr. Dubar married 
Miss Elvira Lastayo, a sister of his first 
wife ; she died December 19, 1907. On 
September 22, 1909, at St. Francis Xavier's 
Church, in New York City, he married 
Marie A. M., a daughter of Charles J. and 
Noemie P. Roussel. They had one child, 
Noemie Roussel Dubar, born August 11, 
1910. 

Dr. Dubar passed away in his fifty-ninth 
year, while enjoying a well deserved popu- 
larity. He was possessed of a rare store 
of information on all subjects, was a de- 
lightful conversationalist, a musician of no 
little ability and his artistic sense was 

229 



shown in his work. Friends and business 
acquaintances alike felt the charm of his 
manner. A gentle humor bore testimony 
to the kindliness of his disposition. 



CRAWFORD, Thomas, 

Prominent Business Man. 

To Thomas Crawford, late of Trenton, 
New Jersey, is due that tribute of respect 
and admiration which is always given, and 
justly so, to those men who, through their 
own efforts, have worked their way upward 
to positions of prominence ; who have 
achieved a competence through their own 
labors ; and who, by their honorable deal- 
ing, command the esteem and confidence 
of those with whom they have been thrown 
in contact. 

The Crawford family is an ancient one 
and, while it was well established in Scot- 
land prior to 1200, we are told that it is of 
Anglo-Norman origin some two centuries 
earlier, and the Crawfords of Scotland 
trace their ancestry to a Norman noble of 
the days of William the Conqueror., The 
name is sometimes spelled Crawfutt in the 
early Scotch records, while Crauford was 
the ordinary spelling until later date. A 
list of the heads of important Scotch famil- 
ies in 1291 has been preserved, and is 
known to historians as the Ragfman's Roll. 
On this list are five Crawfords. The titles 
held in Scotland by this family were: The 
Viscountcies of Mount Crawford and Gar- 
nock ; the earldom of Crawford belonged to 
the Lindsey family. A number of Crawfords 
were among the Scotch who were given 
grants of land in the Province of Ulster, 
Ireland, in 1610, and later by King James 
I. Some of the American families trace 
their descent from the first settler in Ty- 
rone, Ireland, George Crawford. Nicholas 
Pynnar, who made a survey of the Scotch- 
Irish settlements in 1619, reported that in 
the Precinct of Mountjoy, County Tyrone, 
George Crawford had transferred his 
thousand acre grant to Alexander Sander 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



son. Owing to the destruction of many 
early records, it is not always possible to 
trace the descent in an uninterrupted man- 
ner. 

Thomas Crawford was born in Dublin, 
Ireland, in 1833, and died in Trenton, 
New Jersey, December 15, 1911. His ed- 
ucation was acquired in his native land, and 
in the year 1847, when still a young lad, he 
emigrated to America. For a time he made 
his home in Brooklyn, New York, then re- 
moved to Trenton, New Jersey, where the 
remainder of his life was passed. He fol- 
lowed the calling of a blacksmith for many 
years, then established himself in the un- 
dertaking business with which he was suc- 
cessfully identified for many years. He 
was the founder of the undertaking busi- 
ness of Thomas Crawford's Sons, which 
is now conducted by his grandson, D. I. 
Crawford, a son of Thomas Crawford Jr. 
The business was established in 1882, and 
when Mr. Crawford retired to private life 
some years ago, it was continued by hi.s 
sons, and upon their demise, by the present 
owners. Thomas Crawford Sr. was one 
of the oldest members of the Sacred Heart 
Parish, and had been president of the St. 
Vincent de Paul Society for almost half 
a century. He was re-elected annually be- 
cause of the excellent service he rendered 
in behalf of the poor and distressed, and 
his untiring activity in their behalf. A char- 
acteristic story of Mr. Crawford is as fol- 
lows : It was just about a week before his 
death that Mr. Crawford was busied about 
some small matters on the lawn in front 
of his substantial little bungalow, when his 
attention was attracted to a poor man who 
was on his way from Trenton to Borden- 
town. After a little conversation with the 
man, Mr. Crawford deliberately removed 
his overcoat and insisted upon its accept- 
ance by the wayfarer, whose needs had im- 
pressed him. This occurrence was witnessed 
by one of the neighbors, but occasioned no 
comment, as Mr. Crawford was noted for 
his charity. He was an active member of 

230 



the Knights of Columbus, and was an earn- 
est supporter of the Democratic party, al- 
though he never desired to hold public of- 
fice. While the early education of Mr. 
Crawford was a limited one, he was a man 
of keen observation and a deep thinker. 
The questions of the day were followed 
by him with the greatest interest, and he 
was a gifted writer on current events. 

Mr. Crawford married (first) Novem- 
ber 13, 1853, Margaret O'Connor, who died 
November i, 1893. He married (second), 
January 2, 1896, Mary Phalen, widow of 
Thomas Bryant, who survives him. Chil- 
dren : Joseph, Frank, W. Henry and 
Thomas Jr., all now deceased. 



CROUSE, Otto, 

Prominent Lawyer. 

Hon. Otto Crouse was one of the most 
brilliant men of Hudson county, who most 
ably presided over the First District Court 
of Hudson county, and one of the most 
useful and admired members of the New 
Jersey State Board of Education, and Pro- 
fessor of Law in the New York Law 
School, and it has been said of him, "his 
legal mind and unyielding grasp of the 
fundamental principles of honor and hones- 
ty gave him at once standing at the bar 
which mere brilliancy or genius would have 
failed to win. Nature had with lavish hand 
endowed him with splendid faculties and 
talents of a high order and she had coupled 
with these qualities a determination to bring 
them to their fruition." 

Judge Crouse was born at Sampsonville, 
New York, April 24, 1861, son of Fred- 
erick and Doretta Crouse. The family mov- 
ed to Monmouth county, New Jersey, when 
Otto Crouse was young. He was educa- 
ted in Freehold, New Jersey, at the Insti- 
tute, and in 1879 matriculated at Prince- 
ton University, was at the head of his class, 
Academic Department, graduated in 1883, 
and spoke the valedictory. He entered the 
law ofiice of Bedle, Muirheid & McGee, 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



immediately after his graduation, and re- 
mained with the firm (ahhough not a mem- 
ber) from 1900 to 1904, until appointed 
judge of the First District Court of Hud- 
son county. When his term expired he 
formed a partnership with Judge Blair, af- 
terward with Randolph Perkins (law part- 
nership). He was president of the Hud- 
son County Bar Association, and was a 
member and vestryman of St. John's Epis- 
copal Church, Jersey City. Just in the 
height of apparent vigor, and certainly of 
popularity in Hudson county, his health be- 
gan to fail him, and he was obliged to go 
to Colorado. At the time of his death, 
February 22, 191 1, at Long Beach, Cali- 
fornia, he was in the front rank of his pro- 
fession, well beloved, and the charm of a 
large circle of friends. His wife, Chris- 
tine (Bowen) Crouse, bore him four chil- 
dren. 



HAYES, William, 

Xicading Jen/elry Manufacturer. 

William Hayes, head of the jewelry 
manufacturing firm of Hayes Brothers, at 
42 Hill street, Newark, New Jersey, a vet- 
eran of many sharply contested baseball 
games of forty years ago, and known in the 
rifle shooting circles, military and other- 
wise, throughout this country and in Eng- 
land and Germany for his expert marks- 
manship, died suddenly on the Seventeenth 
of June, 191 1, at his home 739 High 
stieet. In what seemed to be perfect health, 
and giving active attention to the details 
of his business up to that time, Mr. Hayes 
became ill about two weeks before his 
death. An operation was considered neces- 
sary in order to save his life, but from 
which he never recovered. 

Mr. Hayes was born in 1848 in the home 
of Jabez W. Hayes, his father, at 918 
Broad street. He was the youngest of four 
sons, and began his business life with his 
father and his brothers, Henry W., Charles 
and Frederick T. Hayes, as manufacturers 

231 



of jewelry in Broad street, where the city 
hall now stands. The elder Hayes was an 
expert steel engraver, connected with the 
Union Banknote Company, and had the dis- 
tinction of having engraved the plates for 
an issue of paper money by the city of 
Newark in the early '6o's. From the time 
the jewelry business began, it was a suc- 
cess. At the death of Jabez W. Hayes, it 
was conducted by the sons. Henry W. was 
the first of the quartet of brothers to die. 
Later, Frederick T. went to Red Bank, 
where he now lives, and the business was 
continued by Charles and William until 
the death of the former a few years ago. 
After which Mr. William Hayes con- 
ducted it alone, giving his personal atten- 
tion until stricken with the fatal illness. 

Mr. Hayes is survived by his widow, 
Mrs. Adelaide Hayes, one of the daugh- 
ters of the late David B. Hedden, whose 
home was in Rankin Place, just back of 
the old Essex court house at Springfield 
avenue and Market street ; and by two 
daughters, one of whom is the wife of 
Colonel Henry H. Brinkerhoff, of Jersey 
City, and one son. 

Mr. Hayes was a man of quiet dignity 
and great nerve, a genial traveling compan- 
ion, and an interesting conversationalist in 
English or German. He was widely known 
through his baseball proclivities, and the 
wonderful reputation which he made in that 
field of sport in his early life; through his 
wonderful ability as a rifle and shotgun de- 
votee, and in his participation in match 
shoots for many years at Sea Girt, and in 
nearly every other State in this country, 
and through his extensive connections in 
the jewelry trade. 

From about 1864 to 1867 Mr. Hayes 
was one of the brightest stars in baseball 
in this section of the country. He played 
as a shortstop in the old Active Club, and 
was an exceptionally clever fielder. From 
the Actives he went to the Eurekas, an old- 
er and equally famous organization in the 
baseball world of those days, playing with 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



brilliant success in the same position for 
that team. He began his career as a marks- 
man about 1870 in a gallery in the old Kay 
gun store in Newark. He had been an adept 
in everything he undertook from his child- 
hood days, at St. Paul's Church school, 
and when he began to shoot he was instant- 
ly marked as a coming man at the targets. 
He liked the new sport, and in a few years 
he attained the highest place among Amer- 
ican marksmen. He became closely allied 
with the German-American Schuetzen- 
bund, and for many years held the title of 
"King of the Schuetzenfest," winning it 
repeatedly at the big National gatherings 
of marksmen at Union Hill. He was for 
many years the champion rifle shot at short 
and long ranges, excelling at anything from 
200 to 600 yards and being without a peer 
on the ring target. 

Besides participating actively in shoot- 
ing festivals and team matches all over the 
country, he made a study of everything con- 
nected with firearms and their use, and be- 
came a recognized authority on everything 
from the Scheutzenfest rifle to the latest 
models in modern service arms, as well as 
in pistol and shotguns and ammunition of 
all kinds. He also did a great deal of ex- 
perimental and practical work to improve 
weapons and missiles and the manner of 
using them. He was the winner of many 
cups and badges and gained a world wide 
reputation as a designer and maker of high 
class badges for shooting clubs and for ath- 
letic sports of all kinds, as well as of badges 
for fraternal orders, in which his firm did 
an immense business. 

He was an expert in pistol practice at 
the shorter ranges and with shotgun in 
the field or at the traps, as he was with a 
rifle. He was at one time a member of the 
New Jersey National Guard rifle team of 
sharpshooters as a volunteer in the Second 
Regiment, and participated in some of the 
matches as a representative of New Jer- 
sey. His services were also much in de- 
mnnd as instructor and coach for individ- 

232 



ual shooters and for the rifle teams and of 
late years he had spent such time as he 
could spare from business on the State 
ranges at the Sea Girt Camp in the summer 
rifle shooting season, becoming acquainted 
with these and making strong friends of 
the leading marksmen of the whole country 
and of some foreign countries. 



RANDOLPH, Bennington F., 

liaipyer. Jurist, Enterprising Citizen. 

When, at the ripe age of seventy-three 
years. Judge Randolph went from earthly 
scenes, there passed one of the strong men 
of the New Jersey bar, one who had graced 
the bench, and one who had taken mor? 
than an ordinary part in the business life 
of his day. When one gazes at the great 
building of the Equitable Life Assurance 
Society on Broadway, New York, the mind 
unconsciously turns back to what must have 
been the small beginning of the Society in 
1859. When the formation of the Society 
was first effected, Judge Randolph, one of 
the organizers, was elected a trustee, during 
the succeeding thirty years retaining that 
position, and to his zeal, ability, and wisdom 
the great building stands in part as a monu- 
ment. So, too, the Central Railroad of New 
Jersey owes to him, in part, its existence, 
for as one of the organizers, its counsel, 
and one time treasurer, he served that cor- 
poration. The list of institutions and cor- 
porations benefiting by his legal wisdom, 
his zeal and his leadership could be ex- 
tended indefinitely, including banks, trust 
companies, schools, seminaries, colleges, and 
churches. All this was in addition to an 
extensive law practice and several terms of 
.service as judge of Hudson county courts. 
Success, professional and material, came to 
him abundantly but solely through merit, 
was well earned and richly deserved. The 
name Randolph, everywhere and in each 
generation an honored one, gained new 
lustre from his blameless, upright life, his 
high intellectual attainment, his legal reputa- 





t 




i 



I 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



tion, his devotion to his wife and his family, 
his dignity and exquisite courtesy, gentle 
manner, attractive personality, nobility of 
character and exalted nature. Honored him- 
self, he always preferred others in honor. 

Judge Randolph sprang from English 
ancestry and from a family rich in pro- 
fessional reputation. The name, originally 
Fitz Randolph, was so borne by the first 
five American generations, but Francis, of 
the sixth generation, retained only the 
initial "F," and wrote his name Randolph, 
as did his son, Judge Bennington F. Ran- 
dolph. The original immigrants of this 
branch, Edward and Elizabeth (Blossom) 
Fitz Randolph, came to this country about 
1680. The line of descent is through their 
son, Joseph Fitz Randolph, born in 1656, 
who married Hannah Conger ; their son, 
Joseph (2) Fitz Randolph, born in 1690, 
who married Rebecca Drake ; their son, 
Joseph (3) Fitz Randolph, born May 24, 
1722, who married Esther Broderick ; their 
son, Robert Fitz Randolph, born in Middle- 
sex county. New Jersey, September 24., 
1762, died September 5, 1821, who married 
Nancy Campton, of French Huguenot de- 
scent; their son, Francis C. F. Randolph, 
born in 1793, died in 1828, who married 
Phoebe Halsey Crane ; their son, Benning- 
ton F. Randolph, to whose memory this re- 
view is dedicated. 

Robert Fitz Randolph, head of the fifth 
American generation and grandfather of 
Judge Bennington F. Randolph, was pre- 
pared for the practice of medicine and prac- 
ticed his profession for many years. Late 
in life he studied for the ministry and was 
ordained a clergyman of the Baptist church 
on .\ugust 27, 1812, at Samptown, his 
brother. Rev. Jacob Randolph, then being 
pastor of the church there. From August, 
1817, until 1820, he was the regularly set- 
tled pastor of the Staten Island Baptist 
Church. He was universally known, how- 
ever, as "Doctor" Randolph. He married, 
when about twenty-six years of age, Nancy 

233 



Campton, who survived him nearly thirty 
years, dying February 22, 185 1. 

Francis C. F. Randolph, father of Judge 
Bennington F. Randolph, was born January 
14, 1793, in Piscataway, New Jersey, died 
in Newark, New Jersey, in 1828, and was 
buried in the churchyard of the First Pres- 
byterian Church at Elizabeth, directly in 
the rear of the church, near the northwest 
corner. After his marriage, on March 6, 
1816, he located in Belvidere, where he 
practiced law, purchasing the law library 
and later receiving a share of the law busi- 
ness of Caleb O. Halsted. In 1825 he mov- 
ed to Elizabeth, where he engaged in prac- 
tice, his contemporaries being those great 
New Jersey lawyers, Chetwood, Willianson, 
Scudder, Frelinghuysen, Hornblower, and 
other noted lawyers of the Union and Essex 
county bars. Although a young man, he 
won instant recognition, and was chosen to 
represent Essex county in the lower house 
of the New Jersey Legislature, this honor 
being followed by his election as surrogate 
of Essex county. Upon his election to the 
latter office he moved to Newark, where he 
purchased the premises on the west side of 
Broad street, south of and adjoining the 
Third Presbyterian Church. There he lived 
until he fell a victim to the dread disease 
consumption, at the early ag.e of thirty-six 
years. He married. March 16, 1816, Phoebe 
Halsey Crane, born September 23, 1793, 
daughter of Benjamin Crane, of Elizabeth, 
New Jersey, also of a distinguished New 
Jersey family. 

Bennington F. Randolph, only son of 
Francis C. F. and Phoebe Halsey (Crane) 
Randolph, was born in Belvidere, New Jer- 
sey, December 13, 1817. died in Jersey City, 
March 7, 1890. After completing his pre- 
paratory years of study in various institu- 
tions, public and private, he entered Lafay- 
ette College, whence he was graduated with 
honors. Many Randolphs had chosen the 
law as their life work, that was his father's 
profession, so the young man after gradua- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



tion had little inclination save for the same 
profession. He studied under the preceptor- 
ship of William C. Morris, of Belvidere, 
and J. F. Randolph, of Freehold, finishing 
his studies, passing the required examina- 
tions, and gaining admission to the New Jer- 
sey bar, first as an attorney in February, 
1839, and as a counsellor in February, 1842. 
For twenty-one years he practiced his pro- 
fession in Monmouth and Ocean counties, 
but in 1861 moved to Jersey City, where he 
died twenty-one years later. During his 
professional career at the bar he was at 
dififerent times associated with others, in- 
cluding his uncle, Judge Joseph F. Ran- 
dolph, of Jersey City, and his cousin, 
Joseph F., Jr. He was also a member of 
the New York bar, being a member of the 
law firm of Alexander & Green. On April 
I, 1868, he was commissioned by Governor 
.Harci^s L. Ward one of the judges of the 
Inferior Court of Common Pleas for the 
county of Hudson. He served until 1873, 
and on June 30 that year was appointed a 
special Master in Chancery. In 1877 he 
was appointed judge of the District Court 
of Jersey City and on March 30, 1882, was 
again appointed to that office by Governoi 
George C. Ludlow. As a lawyer and jurist 
he stood very high, his learning, patience, 
love of justice, and fair-mindedness win- 
ning him the unvarying respect of his pro- 
fessional brethren. 

Judge Randolph was equally prominent 
in the world of business, his trained mind, 
coupled with wise judgment and sound busi- 
ness ability, rendering him a most valuable 
executive and wise in counsel. He was one 
of the founders of the Equitable Life As- 
surance Society of the United States, was 
elected to the first board of trustees in 1859, 
and until his death in 1890 served the So- 
ciety with all his ability, zeal, and earnest- 
ness. He served as director of the Bank of 
Freehold, the First National Bank of Jer- 
;y City, the Mercantile Trust Company, 
and the Mercantile Safe Deposit Company, 
of New York. In t86i he joined with 



others in planning a route to California, 
selecting under official authority the Nic- 
aragua route. He was one of the strongest 
friends of public and higher education, serv- 
ing as a member of the New Jersey State 
and the Jersey City Boards of Education, 
was a director of Princeton Theological 
Seminary, and a trustee of the State Normal 
School. To all these boards he gave freely 
of his time, his wisdom and his experience, 
was devoted to their interests, and instru- 
mental in increasing their usefulness. When 
the project of a railroad to be known as the 
Central Railroad of New Jersey was first 
mooted, he earnestly advocated its construc- 
tion, aided in organizing the company, serv- 
ed as its legal counsel, and was one of the 
real fathers of that now great corporation. 
At one time he added to his heavy business 
and professional burdens the office of treas- 
urer of the company. 

In religious faith Judge Randolph was a 
Presbyterian, inheriting his faith from a 
line of elders of that church and himself an 
elder for many years. He was closely as- 
sociated in religious work and social inter- 
course with the pastors of the Presbyterian 
Church of Freehold. Rev. Daniel ^McLean, 
D. D.. in 1842 ; later Rev. S. I. Alexander, 
and in 1861 with Rev. Dr. Chandler. In 
1 86 1 he moved to Jersey City, where he 
was elected an elder of the Presbyterian 
church whose pastor was then Rev. C. K. 
Mabie, D. D. When the congregation con- 
solidated with the Bergen Presbyterian 
Church it became known as the First Pres- 
byterian Church of Jersey City, the first 
pastor of the new church being Rev. Charles 
Herr. D. D. As an elder he was a pillar 
of strength to his pastors, and to devoutness 
and loyalty added all the Christian graces. 
He was widely known and highly esteemed 
for his personal, professional, and business 
qualities, and richly served the communities 
in which he resided by generous, untiring 
aid in all movements for the public benefit. 
His life was an active, u.seful one, not sel- 
fishly passed but given freely to the service- 



234 



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CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



of the public. He was great in all things, 
yet withal modest and unassuming, a de- 
lightful companion, a faithful friend, true 
to every trust reposed in him and constant 
in his fidelity to his family, his daughters 
treasuring above all the memory of his de- 
votion to their mother and his loving care 
of their every interest. 

Judge Randolph married, in 1840, Eli.;a 
Henderson, daughter of John Burrowes and 
Hope Forman, of Freehold, New Jersey. 
John Burrowes Forman was born in 1786, 
died in 1853, son of Jonathan and Hope 
(Burrowes) Forman. He married Hope 
R. Henderson, born m 1787, died in 1823, 
daughter of Hon. Thomas Henderson ; thev 
were the parents of four children : Eliza, 
the youngest, was born in 1819. Jonathan 
Forman, eldest son of Sheriff David For- 
man, was born in 1758, died in 1803. He 
married Hope Burrowes, a sister of Major 
John Burrowes. She bore him four chil- 
dren, John Burrowes Forman being the 
youngest. Sheriff David Forman was a 
son of Judge Jonathan and Margaret 
(Wyckoff) Forman, the former a prosper- 
ous farmer and judge of the Court of Com- 
mon Pleas of Monmouth county in 1745. 
Judge Jonathan Forman was the second 
son of Samuel Forman, high sheriff of 
Monmouth county in 1695. He was a son 
of Aaron Forman, who came from Long 
Island to Monmouth prior to 1693, son of 
Robert Foreman* founder of the family 
in America, an Englishman driven to Hol- 
land by religious persecution, thence com- 
ing to America, where he appears as one of 
eighteen incorporators of the town of Flush- 
ing, Long Island, in 1645. Four daughters 
of Judge Randolph survive him : Frances 
Forman Fitz Randolph ; Isabella H., mar- 
ried Rev. Albert Dod Minor ; Julia, married 
Flavel McGee, a prominent lawyer of Jer- 
sey City ; and Althea R., married Joseph D. 
Bedle, Governor of New Jersey. 

In a letter written to his daughter, Althea, 



*See addenda for Foreman and Forman 



imder date of January 20, 1875, Judge Ran- 
dolph spoke in the highest terms of the in- 
augural address of Governor Bedle, adding 
the wish that "a copy could be placed in the 
hands of every thinking man," closing with 
the sentence "I am grateful to God for His 
blessing and favor vouchsafed to your good 
husband." Asa fitting close to this review 
of his life a copy of the splendid tribute 
paid Judge Randolph by the Hudson Coun- 
ty Bar Association is appended : 

At a meeting of the bar of Hudson County, 
New Jersey, held at the Chancery Chambers, 
Jersey City, March 10. 1890. it was resolved as 
follows : 

The members of the bar of Hudson County 
learn with deep regret of the decease of Ben- 
nington F. Randolph, their honored associate for 
nearly thirty years, and for over half a century 
an active and well known member of the legal 
profession in this state. During this long period 
his industry, his intelligence, his integrity, have 
been unexcelled in the profession. Personal in- 
tercourse with him only served to add the warmth 
of affection to the respect with which he was 
everywhere regarded. We do not believe any- 
one can recall an unkind remark uttered by him, 
and we are sure that many have felt, and will 
always remember, the genial welcome, the kind 
attention, the timely suggestion, the word of en- 
couragement, which it was his habit to give. He 
could hardly have known what it was to have an 
enemy, but the narrow confines of his own state 
are not nearly spacious enough to enclose his host 
of friends. A member of an honored New Jer- 
sey family which has rendered much and signal 
service to the state, he was always looked to and 
chosen for responsible public duties, and he dis- 
charged them with constant fidelity and well- 
directed skill. Fifteen years of judicial service, 
twenty years on the riparian commission, and a 
whole generation of both personal and official 
labor in the improvement and government of the 
public schools, testify to his place in the public 
esteem and his devotion to the general good. 
As a guardian of the State's most valuable prop- 
erty, as a dispenser of her public justice, and as a 
manager of her system of popular education — 
the palladium of her liberties — our departed 
friend filled up his measure of service to the 
community, heaped and running over. But be- 
sides this, he filled many posts of private duty. 
His sound judgment and integrity were sought 
hy several leading financial institutions, in which 
he served as director, and he aided in organizing 
that gigantic engine of providence and benevo- 



235 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



lence, the Equitable Life Assurance Society. He 
was a consistent Christian and deeply interested 
in church work and religious education, and his 
influence was thus always on the side of enlight- 
enment, good morals, and true progress. As 
such men yield to the common destiny, lay down 
their burdens and pass away, we may justly sor- 
row at their loss ; but in their well rounded term 
of years and honors and public services, we may 
realize an example which will act long after they 
are gone, and will perpetuate their memory in a 
line of honorable and devoted lives, which is 
a true immortality, though, as we humbly believe, 
not the only immortality of well doing reserved 
for them. We tender our respectful sympathy to 
the family and relatives of our deceased friend, 
and will attend the funeral ceremonies, and we 
direct the secretary of the meeting to present this 
resolution to the courts of this county, and to 
request its entry on the minutes, and that a copy 
be forwarded to the family of the deceased. 

Lovely and lovable, a devoted wife and 
faithful mother, Mr.s. Randolph was the 
pride of her husband and the joy of her 
children. One of the three heirs of the late 
John B. Forman estate, her executive abili- 
ty in financial and executive affairs was giv- 
en ample scope and was proven of high 
quality. An immaculate house-keeper, al- 
ways surrounded by a circle of friends, her 
hospitality was unbounded. Her notable 
charm of manner and gracious personality 
blended with a sincerity of purpose, eman- 
ating from a strong Christian character. 
Her judgment was excellent, she was a lib- 
eral provider, and known for her generosity 
and philanthropy. In 1861 the family mov- 
ed to Jersey City, Judge Randolph presid- 
ing over the First District Court of Hud- 
son county, and there she was much sought 
after by the representative people in the 
church and in society, and was greatly be- 
loved by all. Her charming personality 
and lovable characteristics never forsook 
her, but. witty, brilliant, and beautiful to 
the last, she delighted those who knew her. 
An accident terminated her life in her 
eighty-ninth year, while living in Freehold 
in the new residence built by her upon the 
retirement of the family after Judge Ran- 
dolph's death in 1890. 

236 



She was a daughter of John Burrowes 
Forman and Hope Henderson, his wife, and 
granddaughter of Hon. Thomas Henderson, 
a graduate of Princeton, a distinguished 
physician and patriot of the Revolutionary 
period, a descendant of Michael Hender- 
son, grandson of Sir Michael Balfour, of 
England. The Formans are descended 
from Robert Forman, an Englishman, who 
came to this country in 1645. The connec- 
tion of the family with the Wyckoffs by 
marriage, the Seymours, of New York, and 
many promient lines and people is most in- 
teresting. 

A great shock to Mrs. Randolph and one 
that came but a few years after the death 
of her honored husband was the passing of 
her son-in-law. Judge Bedle, who died Oc- 
tober 21, 1894. Seven years later she was 
again prostrated by the death of her son- 
in-law. Honorable Flavel McGee, who died 
August 12, 1901. In August, 1906, a fav- 
orite and devoted daughter, Miss Frances 
Forman Fitz Randolph, died, and two years 
later, on August 21, Mrs. Randolph suc- 
cumbed to accidental injuries, survived by 
her daughters, Mrs. Althea F. Randolph, 
widow of ex-Governor Bedle, and Mrs. 
Julia F. Randolph, widow of Flavel McGee, 
and Mrs. Isabella Minor. Mrs. Minor 
died June 10, 1910, leaving a daughter, Sus- 
an Brown Minor, a resident of New York 
City. Mrs. McGee died November 30, 
1912, leaving Mrs. Bedle the last survivor 
of her family. 



SPELLMEYER, Henry, D. D., LL.D., 

Distinguished Methodist Divine. 

"Nothing must ever interfere with my 
duty," was ever Bishop Spellmeyer's motto, 
and nothing ever did, his end coming while 
he was presiding over a session of the New 
Jersey Conference at Atlantic City, after 
the conference had been in session three 
days. The life of Henry Spellmeyer was re- 
markable for its contiued development from 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



youth to its close. A University graduate 
at eighteen years, a member of the Newark 
Conference of the Methodist Episcopal 
Church at twenty-one, his thirty-five years 
of unbroken pastoral work a succession of 
honorable promotions to important charges 
and church official position, the final honor 
came at the age of fifty-seven years, when 
the General Conference of his church be- 
stowed its highest trust in electing him a 
bishop by six hundred and twelve out of 
six hundred and ninety-one votes, the larg- 
est vote ever cast for that high office in the 
history of the church. 

Numerous were the important posts he 
filled, yet no honor or promotion ever came 
to him that he did not earn by persistent 
toil and genuine merit. He never under- 
took anything without special preparation. 
For his public utterances he did not depend 
upon the inspiration of the minute. This 
habit of mind brought to him a furnishing 
and equipment which served him to good 
purpose in his later ministry and particu- 
larly when he came to the episcopacy, for 
he had a fund of well thought out material 
with which to stimulate and inspire a seem- 
ingly extemporaneous address. He was no 
less careful in deeds than in speech. If he 
had a problem in administration to meet he 
gave it the most painstaking consideration, 
viewing it from every possible angle. This 
would sometimes lead him to hesitation, but 
when he had fully examined the case and 
had gathered all possible light from all 
sources he was ready to act, and then he 
was immovable. Hence he was strong in 
the administration of the affairs of pastorate 
and episcopacy. 

His sense of justice was very keen and 
was applied to all his affairs. Unwilling 
to be imposed upon he was even stronger 
in his purpose not to impose upon others ; 
and while keenly feeling an injustice in- 
flicted upon him he was ever ready to throw 
the mantle of charity over those responsible 
for the act. To say a kind word, to do a 



kind deed, was his great pleasure. That 
fine vein of sympathy and kindness that 
was so marked in his family relations as son, 
as husband, as father, as brother, was felt 
in all other associations in which he moved. 
Its manifestation in his pastoral work great- 
ly endeared him to all to whom he minis- 
tered and was a decided factor in his marvel- 
ous success as a shepherd of souls. 

Bishop Spellmeyer was a very popular 
preacher, multitudes gathering to listen to 
his exposition of the Word. He used no 
sensational methods, but with refinement 
and dignity conducted all of his services as 
became the Gospel of Christ and one who 
had a serious message to deliver to men. 
He knew the needs of the human heart, and 
his one purpose was to meet that necessity 
in so far as he could as an ambassador of 
the Master. His sermons were deeply spir- 
itual, his expression very clear, his voice 
superior and well trained, his appearance 
attractive. He seemed to be able always to 
say the right thing in the right way and to 
make his meaning easily understood. Said 
a contemporary: "He is a model of chaste- 
ness, clearness, and expression, while the 
matter is pure beaten oil. He is an elocu- 
tionist of high cultured type and this he 
brings into the pulpit with both grace and 
unction. His sermons would do to go into 
print without either erasure or addition or 
change of a jot or tittle." Said another : "We 
witnessed his goings forth among a people 
who saw in his busy footsteps the tracery of 
feet of mercy; we were cognizant of the 
steady grasp of his pulpit ministrations on 
vast congregations of edified hearers ; we 
saw him in the Conference as a steady force 
interpenetrating all church interests. We 
knew him when repeatedly smitten by grief, 
in a short time resignedly bowing to the 
will of God, nothing daunted ; we enjoyed 
his personal friendship when among strange 
brethren, and we are prepared to say that 
we have never known a minister of Christ 
who more perfectly measured up to our ideal 



237 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



as a preacher, pastor, and all round pyra- 
midal man "who stood four square to every 
wind that blows.' " 

While the pulpit was his throne, he met 
all the exacting requirements of the loving, 
faithful pastor, systematically, carefully, 
and persistently. He made the rounds of 
pastoral calls, going from house to house in 
search of his people, and when the round 
was completed repeated his visits again and 
again, giving the most pronounced sympathy 
and brotherly help to those afflicted in body, 
mind, or estate. He was a welcome visitor 
in the homes of the sick and the poor and in 
the homes of the rich and prosperous, for 
he neglected none, the conviction of the su- 
preme importance of his work being ever 
with him. He felt that men were lost with- 
out the Gospel and that it was his particular 
mission to lead them to Christ. His minis- 
try was evangelistic ; he had revivals in all 
his charges; his meetings were scenes of 
great spiritual power and many hundreds 
were converted and led into the church. 
He was an indefatigable worker and noth- 
ing social or secular was permitted to in- 
terfere with the complete fulfillment of his 
ministerial duty. 

Into the episcopacy Bishop Spellmeyer 
brought the full application of all the ener- 
gy and industry which had characterized 
him as a pastor. One sentence from an ad- 
dress in response to a great welcome given 
him on taking up his official residence in 
Cincinnati truly reveals the man : "I give to 
you my heart and hand in friendliest greet- 
ing and my promise to you is to do all I 
can for everybody I can in in any way 1 
can." This promise he kept. When later 
the General Conference fixed his official 
residence at St. Louis, he became an unusual 
influence among the religious forces of that 
city and universally esteemed and loved by 
all who met him. He was particularly strong 
and happy in his administration of an annual 
conference. As a presiding officer he com- 
manded the highest respect, was proficient as 
a parliamentarian and graceful in his deport- 



ment in the chair. His brotherly spirit awak- 
ened immediate confidence in the hearts of 
his brethren ; they saw that he comprehend- 
ed the delicacies of the situation and would 
be absolutely fair in the exercise of his 
power and responsibility. A Methodist ann- 
ual conference is unlike any other body on 
earth, either political or religious. It is 
a very democratic body, and every man in 
it is a potential district superintendent, or 
even bishop. There is no law of caste or 
of preference ; free speech exists to the full- 
est degree ; the only inflexible law of the 
conference is loyalty to the church and to 
the bishop presiding. Hence the bishop 
holds a peculiar position, and one that re- 
quires the highest type of consecrated man- 
hood. Bishop Spellmeyer, so refined, so 
gentle, but so strong, met every requirement. 
He studied each particular case with great 
care, keeping in view the interests of the 
church and of the pastor, both very dear 
to him. He encouraged each one to come to 
him with perfect frankness and to tell him 
the needs and conditions of his case. He 
did not ask for the maintenance of secrecy 
in reference to appointments, preferring to 
have the problem openly and clearly worked 
out. But his open heartedness, gentleness, 
and fairness were not signs of any lack of 
firmness, and at the close of a Conference 
session, when the appointments had been 
reatl, he was perfectly willing to meet and 
to talk with any disappointed man. Bishop 
Berry characterized him as "manly, brother- 
ly, level headed, discriminating, and sympa- 
thetic ;" another contemporary as "humble, 
sympathetic, approachable, graceful, and 
tactful in administration, a fervent preach- 
er of the Gospel, a man upon whom the 
Church can look with justifiable pride at 
any time and under any circumstance." 

The pecuniary necessities and embarrass- 
ments of men in the conferences where he 
presided appealed to him strongly, and for 
the relief of such cases he maintained a 
fund. When he received compensation for 
special services, such as dedications or other 



238 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



occasions, deducting tlie mere amount of 
personal expense he would place this re- 
mainder with this fund and sacredly devote 
it to the relief of his brethren who might 
be in need. 

Bishop Spellmeyer was of American 
birth, his parents German and Scotch. His 
father, Matthias Henry Spellmeyer, was 
born and spent his youth in Germany. His 
mother, Mary Jamison, was born on one 
of the Shetland Islands, off the coast of 
Scotland. They met in the United States 
and were married January i6, 1847. Henry, 
the eldest of their three children, was born 
in New York City, November 25, 1847, ^'^^ 
in Atlantic City, New Jersey, March 12, 
1 9 10. It was his mother's dearest wish that 
he become a minister, and it was her daily 
practice, after he came to an age of under- 
standing, to retire with him to her room to 
pray that he might grow up to be a good 
minister of Jesus Christ. Whatever might 
have been his own convictions, it required 
persuasion from those interested in him to 
convince him that he would be able to meet 
such a responsibility. At the age of fifteen 
years he entered the University of New 
York, pursuing the regular classical course 
and carrying off the honors at his gradua- 
tion, three years later. He tutored for a 
time in a private family, then decided upon 
the ministry, completed a course at Union 
Theological Seminary, and at the age of 
twenty-one years was received on probation 
by the Newark Conference of the Methodist 
Episcopal Church, in March, 1869. His 
first appointment was at Kingsley Church, 
Staten Island, within two miles of his fath- 
er's home. There he served three years, 
building up the church in all departments 
and endearing himself to the people of the 
charge. He was next stationed at Bloom- 
field, New Jersey, where a remarkable re- 
vival attended his ministry. He remained 
at Bloomfield for three years, although one 
of the most prominent churches of the Con- 
ference appealed for his services. When 
his term expired, as fixed by church law. 



three of the most important churches of the 
Conference insisted upon his being assigned 
to them. The presiding bishop appointed 
him to the Central Church of Newark, and 
that church further secured him as pastor 
until his combined service numbered eleven 
years, two terms under the three year limit 
and one term under the five year limit. The 
other churches which he served during an 
unbroken pastorate of thirty-five years in 
the Newark Conference were Saint James, 
at Elizabeth, Trinity at Jersey City, Calvary 
at East Orange and Roseville, and Centen- 
ary at Newark. While with the latter 
church, he was a delegate to the Ecumeni- 
cal Conference held in London, England. 
In each case, while the time limit was in 
force, he remained in pastoral charge as long 
as church law allowed, and it is a remark- 
able fact that his whole itinerant ministry 
was spent in an area that could be covered 
by the naked eye from an eminence in the 
vicinity of any of his charges. There was 
scarcely a year in all the thirty-five years 
when urgent efforts were not made to se- 
cure his transfer to large and responsible 
fields of labor outside of the Newark Con- 
ference, but he was in love with his work 
where he best knew it and no tempting calls 
could induce him to leave it. In each case 
he was so absorbed with the pastorate he 
was serving that men sometimes failed to 
appreciate the breadth of his sympathy, but 
his real vision did take in the broad area 
of the Kingdom of Christ and he had the 
greatest interest in other men's successes as 
well as his own. 

While yet a minister he bore various re- 
sponsibilities bestowed by his brethren. He 
was a trustee of the Centenary Collegiate 
Institute, Syracuse University, and Drew 
Theological Seminary. He was a delegate 
from the Newark Conference to the Gener- 
al Conferences of 1896, 1900, and 1904; 
and in 1896 the General Conference, in 
forming its committees, placed him on the 
Book Concern, and also made him a mem- 
ber of the book committee. When the lat- 



239 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ter created a committee on the entertainment 
of the General Conference of 1900, they 
selected Dr. Spellmeyer as chairman. In 
that capacity he quickly demonstrated his 
ability in business matters and administra- 
tion. His ready grasp of all details and his 
superior ability, so manifest whenever he 
appeared before the body to give notices or 
to present plans commanded close attention 
and admiration from all delegates. The 
Editor of the "Church Advocate," the of- 
ficial organ, wrote that "successive Confer- 
ences may try in vain to find a chairman of 
the Entertainment Committee that will sur- 
pass him." The General Conference of 
1900 decided upon two new bishops. Dr. 
Spellmeyer, although receiving considerable 
more than a majority of all votes cast did 
not reach the legal two thirds required to 
elect. He was continued a member of the 
book committee and was again chairman of 
the entertainment committee of the General 
Conference of 1904. At that conference he 
was elected bishop by a vote that was the 
largest ever cast for a candidate for that of- 
fice. The conference fixed his official resi- 
dence at Cincinnati, Ohio, and in 1906 as- 
signed him to visit the Methodist confer- 
ences and mission in the orient. He made this 
journey accompanied by his wife, traveling 
about sixteen thousand miles, being at times 
in great peril. While on the Yangzte river 
he wrote : "Twice our house-boat has been 
wrecked, twice the bamboo rope has broken 
and we were at the mercy of a fierce tide 
and great rocks waiting for a chance to 
strike. Once the rope slipped from the track- 
er's hands with the same perils increased 
somewhat by our nearness to most danger- 
ous whirlpools and projecting sharp-edged 
ledges of stone. But notwithstanding our 
anxieties and record breaking trip for ad- 
venture, the journey has been a great de- 
light to me and I have had no sense of ser- 
ious alarm, believing that somehow we 
would get ashore before the boat could sink 
and knowing that I was on the path of duty, 
where the one who has faith can feel that on 

240 



that road God is his companion and pro- 
tection." Of China he wrote: "China is 
discontented with herself. At least she 
wants better things, better implements for 
her farmers, better scholarship for her stu- 
dents, and a better faith for her 400,000,- 
000. China is building school houses and 
railroads and electric plants. She is ready 
to welcome the hand that will lift her to 
a higher plane in the history of nations. 
This is the red letter day of opportunity for 
the Christian Church. If Christ were on 
earth today saying again 'Go' to his apostles, 
I do not know where he would tell them to 
'begin' but I think in this age it would be 
China, rather than Jerusalem." The trip 
home was retarded by the serious illness of 
Mrs. Spellmeyer at Bombay, India. On his 
return, his official residence was fixed at 
St. Louis, Missouri. His last official assign- 
ment was to preside over the annual meet- 
ing of the New Jersey Conference at At- 
lantic City in March, 1910. There he had 
presided three full days, winning all hearts 
by his fraternal spirit and felicitous bear- 
ing. He was particularly enjoyable on Fri- 
day, when candidates for the ministry were 
being received, and none could have thought 
that they were looking upon his face for the 
last time. On the morrow they were startled 
with the sad news, "Bishop Spellmeyer is 
dead," taken from the midst of his own 
New Jersey friends, of which most fitting 
end Dr. Fred Clare Baldwin writes in the 
following lines : 

"Here had he caught the Master's call ; 
Here had he served unceasingly : 1 

Here was he known and loved by all, I 

Here by the Eastern Sea. 

Here were the friends of the days of yore ; 
Here were the comrades he loved to greet : 
Here were the homes with the open door, 
Here was the welcome sweet. 

Here was the soil that he loved to tread; 
Here was the land of the smiling sky: 
Here was the place where his heart had bled, 
Here he came home to die." 

Without solicitation from any one, Syra- 
cuse University conferred upon him, on the 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



recommendation of Chancellor Sims, the 
degree of Doctor of Divinity when he was 
thirty-four years of age. In 1905 his alma 
mater. New York University, conferred the 
degree of Doctor of Laws. 

While serving in his first pastorate on 
Staten Island he married, November 8, 
1871. at Haverstraw, New York, Matilda, 
daughter of Rev. Thomas Smith, of the 
Newark Conference. There were four chil- 
dren ; the eldest, a daughter, married Mr. 
James Boote, of East Orange, New Jersey ; 
the other three died in infancy. 



SUTTON, Frederick, 

Financier, Man of Enterprise. 

Heroic death was a fate shared by many 
of the hundreds of the victims of that great 
marine tragedy, the loss of the steamship 
"Titanic" in the spring of 1912, but it was 
not admiration for a man who had met his 
death with fearlessness and fortitude that 
caused the former friends and colleagues of 
Frederick Sutton to bear testimony of him 
as a man of "commanding ability, sterling 
integrity, and strong personality, whose as- 
pirations were lofty and whose hopes were 
ideals." Rather were those words written 
in appreciation of one with whom they had 
enjoyed pleasant business relations, upon 
whose honor they had come to rely, and 
whose friendship they counted a precious 
possession. Frederick Sutton was long a 
resident of Haddonfield, New Jersey, al- 
though his business interests were in Phila- 
delphia, where he was engaged in cofifee 
importation, and in public service companies 
of New Jersey, notably Wildwood, one of 
the popular watering places of the Atlantic 
coast. 

Frederick Sutton was born in Suffolk 
county, England, in 1850, son of George 
and Elizabeth Sutton, and in that country 
acquired his education, coming to the 
United States at the age of twenty. He 
was but twenty-six years of age when he 
founded the coflfee importing firm of Sutton 

241 

II— 16 



& Vansant, a concern whose operations, 
large and widespread, brought prosperity 
to the partners. Mr. Sutton's excellent 
judgment and business sagacity led him in- 
to wise investments of his resources, the de- 
velopment of seashore porperty being a field 
in which he was especially interested. At 
the time of the founding of Wildwood, now 
a resort with all claims to prominence as 
an ideal watering place, he was a heavy in- 
vestor, and was a director of the Marine 
National Bank of Wildwood, the Five Mile 
Beach Electric Company, the North Wild- 
wood Land Company, and the Wildwood 
Manor Hotel Company, also being a direc- 
tor of the West Jersey Electric Company, 
with lines running to the above resort. Mr. 
Sutton was at the time of his death presi- 
dent of the Collingswood ( New Jersey) 
National Bank. 

With so many of his business interests 
centering in Philadelphia, he naturally there 
formed associations of a social nature, and 
was a member, among numerous other or- 
ganizations of the L*nion League, also for 
many years serving as president of the So- 
ciety of St. George. A brilliant mind and 
pleasing personality made him a favorite 
among his fellows, and he was a welcome 
addition to any gathering. 

Mr. Sutton's residence in Haddonfield, 
New Jersey, began soon after his establish- 
ment of the firm of Sutton & Vansant, and 
there he lived at the time of his death. Ill 
health had taken him abroad, where he made 
a short stay, and he was one of the pas- 
sengers on the liner "Titanic" when that 
vessel struck an iceberg on her maiden 
voyage. His death was mourned with that 
sincerity of grief that is the highest tribute 
to a man who has lived a life of useful- 
ness and rectitude, for into the sixty-two 
years of his life he had crowded much of 
earnest effort and high attainment. There 
follows the resolutions adopted by the 
board of directors of the Collingswood 
National Bank, of which he was president: 

At a special meeting of the board of directors 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



of the Collingswood National Bank, held April 
22, 1912, convened for the purpose of expressing 
its sorrow and deep regret at the untimely and 
tragic passing away of their late president and 
colleague, Mr. Frederick Sutton, in the disaster 
of the steamship Titanic, on the morning of April 
15, 1912, the following resolution was adopted: 

Whereas :— The Divine Architect of the Uni- 
verse has seen fit to remove from our midst 
our devoted President, a man of commanding 
ability, sterling integrity, and strong personality, 
whose aspirations were lofty and whose hopes 
were ideals, who succeeded in many of the ob- 
jects for which he strove, who gave his time, his 
thoughts, and his means for this institution with- 
out any reward ; one who was admired and loved 
by his associates for his strength of character, 
genial nature, grace, and dignity. To him and his 
wise counsel is largely due not only the success- 
ful upbuilding of this institution, but also the 
growth, development, and success of other asso- 
ciations of which he was a part, and 

Whereas: — His death leaves his associates and 
the Board of Directors of this bank with a pro- 
found sense of loss and with the greatest admir- 
ation for his many fine qualities of character 
and although we deplore his unfortunate end. yet 
it is with pride and patriotism that we point to 
him as one of the many men who stepped back 
on the ill-fated steamship "Titanic" in response 
to that noble Anglo-Saxon sentiment "Women 
and Children First" and thus died that others 
might be saved. 

Therefore, be it resolved that the Board of 
Directors of this bank extend to his relatives and 
many friends their heartfelt sympathy and sin- 
cere condolence, as we feel that we do not 
mourn alone, and further be it resolved that a 
copy of this resolution be sent to the family and 
that a copy be spread upon the minutes of this 
institution. 

Edward S. Sheldon, Vice-President, 
David S. Rush, Cashier. 

Frederick Sutton married, October 18, 
1877, Ella, daughter of William Under- 
down, still living at the Haddonfield home. 
Children : Elizabeth Ashbumer, deceased : 
Florence Ellen, now Mrs. Francis H. Tom- 
lin, of Haddonfield ; Jennie Banham, de- 
ceased. 



GOD LEY, John Forman, 

Enterprising Business Man. 

The late John Forman Godley. of Tren- 
ton, New Jersey, was a fine example of a 

242 



man born to command. Wise to plan, quick 
in action, capable of prolonged labor, all 
these qualities were combined with a power 
of close concentration. He had a habit of 
investigating thoroughly every detail of a 
proposed enterprise, and of calculating 
closely the probable consequences of any 
given policy. Every subject was given in- 
tense thought, and when satisfied with the 
conclusions at which he had arrived, he had 
the courage of his convictions in the face 
of determined opposition. His mistakes in 
judgment were few and far between. 

William Godley, great-grandfather of 
John Forman Godley, married Mary Rock- 
hill, daughter of Edward Rockhill, a prom- 
inent man of Hunterdon county. New Jer- 
sey. 

William Godley, son of William and 
Mary (Rockhill) Godley, bought a tract of 
land of two hundred acres, in Hunterdon 
county. New Jersey, in 1791, and the fol- 
owing year built the large stone homestead 
on it. The Godleys were Methodists, and 
as there was no church in the neighbor- 
hood, the Presiding Elder held meetings at 
regular intervals at this homestead. He 
married (first) Abigail Grandin, and when 
she died he married (second) her sister 
Eleanor (Grandin) Covenhoven, a widow, 
daughters of Philip and Eleanor (Forman) 
Grandin. Philip Grandin was commission- 
ed major of the Second Military Battalion 
by Governor Franklin, .\pril 10, 1771. 

Augustus Godley. son of William and 
Eleanor (Grandin — Covenhoven) Godley, 
was born on the Godley homestead in Hun- 
terdon county. New Jersey. He was the 
owner of a mill, and Godley Mills, Hunter- 
don county, was named in his honor. He 
was also possessor of other extensive lands 
in Hunterdon county, New Jersey. He 
finally sold his mill and retired to the home- 
stead which, after his death, was purchased 
by his son, John Forman Godley. Augus- 
tus Godley married, (first) Mary Dis- 
brough, (second) Elizabeth Paul Forman, 
a descendant of Rev. William Forman, of 
England, whose son, Robert Forman, had 




/^-^^^t^v 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ancestor was possessed of goodly means as 
well as being a person of consequence. He 
soon removed to Bergen, New Jersey, set- 
tled there, and died in 1682. His wife died 
there in 1680. The place where he settled 
was then a Dutch hamlet and Indian trading 
post on the hill between the Hudson river 
and Newark Bay, in the Indian county of 
Scheyichbi, in the New Netherlands. There 
he acquired lands and became a planter. He 
was appointed schepen (alderman) of Ber- 
gen county, August 18, 1673, during the re- 
occupation of New Netherlands by the 
Dutch, and as a mark of honor was buried 
under the Dutch Church of Bergen, at his 
death, September 4, 1682. On August 20, 
1682, he conveyed property to his son-in- 
law, Roeloff \'an Houten. 

In this connection it is well to mention that 
this Pieter Van Marselis is identical with 
him of whom Riker records as Pieter Mar- 
celisen, or Peter Marcelis, and who, ac- 
cording to the same authority, was born in 
Beest, near Leerdam, province of Utrecht, 
Holland ; and he is the same Pieter Marcel- 
isen referred to by Neafie, himself a de- 
scendant of Pieter, and who says in his 
historical narrative that Pieter "might have 
been born in Leerdam, but when he came 
to America he was from the village of Beest, 
near the town of Buren, in the province of 
Gelderland," and also that at least three of 
his children were born in Beest. Riker 
also notes that he is said to have been Van 
Beest, which means "from Beest." It may 
be stated here that this Pieter Van Marsel- 
is dropped the prefix Van from his name. 

According to Harvey, the historian of 
Bergen county, the children of Pieter Mar- 
celisen were James, Jannetje, Pieter, Mer- 
selis, Elizabeth and Hillegond. Mr. Labaw 
says "the name and sex of the first one we 
do not know ;" that the second was called 
Marcelis (always called Marcelis Pieterse) ; 
the third Jannetje, who married Roelof 
Helmigse Van Houten ; and the fourth 
Neesje Pieterse, who married Gerrit Gerrit- 
sen, Jr. But Mr. Labaw takes account only 

24s 



of the four children of Pieter who accom- 
panied their parents to America. A more 
recent, and perhaps more accurate account 
of the children of Pieter Van Marcelis is as 
follows: I. Hessil Pieterse, married (first) 
Lysbot Kuper, (second), February 6, 1714, 
Magdelena Bruyn. 2. 'Marcelis Pieterse, of 
further mention. 3. Jannetje Pieterse, mar- 
ried, September 3, 1676, Helmigh Roelofer 
Van Houten, ancestor of all the American 
Van Houtens. 4. Neesje Pieterse, married. 
May II, 1681, Gerrit Gerritse Van Wag- 
eningen, and became ancestor of the Van 
Wagoner and Garritse families. 

(V) Marcelis Pieterse Van Marselis, 
second child of Pieter Van TVIarselis or Mer- 
celisen, is accorded progenitorship of the 
Preakness families of the Merselis surname. 
He was born about 1656, and died, October 
23, 1747. He married. May 12, 1681, 
Pieterjie Van Vorst, daughter of Ide and 
Hieletje (Hulda) Jans. Children (perhaps 
others of whom appears no record) : Eliz- 
abeth, married Adrain Post, Jr. ; Hillegont- 
je, married Harpert Garrabant; Pieter, of 
further mention ; Edo, married Ariantje 
Sip, a cousin; Annetje; Catreyna, married 
Reynier Van Geisen ; Leena, married Dirck 
Van Giesen : Jannetje, married Johann Van 
Zolingen. 

(VI) Pieter (Peter) Van Marselis, son 
of Marcelis (or Merselis Pieterse) Van 
Marselis, was baptized July 17, 1687, and 
died April i, 1770. He married, December 
3, 1717, Janneke Prior. Children: Mersel- 
is, married Elizabeth Vlierboom ; , 

died in infancy ; daughter, name unknown ; 
Pieter, married in New York, Hannah Els- 
worth ; Andries ; John, married Beletje Van 
Wagonen ; Edo. of further mention ; two 
children, died in infancy : Antje ; Johannee; 
Jenneke, married Gerrit Sip ; Rachel ; Mary ; 
Elizabeth. 

(VII) Edo Van Merselis, seventh child 
of Pieter and Janneke (Prior) Van Mer- 
selis, was born January 27, 1729, and died 
October 12, 1799. He is said to have been 
the first Merselis to settle in what afterward 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



became Wayne township, where he had a 
large and valuable tract of land which, after 
his death, was divided into several small 
farms ; his old homestead is still owned by 
his descendants. He made a public dona- 
tion of land for a burial ground and meet- 
ing house site. He married, April ii, 1754, 
Ariante Sip, daughter of Ide and Antje 
(Van Wagonen) Sip. Children (May have 
been others of whom there is no record) : 
Antje, married Simeon Van Winkle; Jan- 
netje, married (first) Adrain Van Houten, 
(second) Enoch J. Vreeland : Pieter, mar- 
ried Jannetje (Hettie) Van Winkle; Edo, 
married Helen Van Houten; Cornelius, 
married Maria Post ; John, married Jan- 
netje Van Riper; Catlyntje, married Isaac 
Van Saun, of Lower Preakness ; Arreyant- 
je, married John Parke; Gerrit of further 
mention. 

(VIII) Gerrit Merselis, youngest son 
and child of Edo and Ariantje (Sip) Van 
Marselis, was born in Preakness, New Jer- 
sey, October i, 1777, and died, April 2, 1843, 
on the old homestead farm where his life 
had been chiefly spent. He married. May 
3, 1799, Ellen (or Lena) De Gray. Chil- 
dren (may have been others): 'Marea; 
Jane; Edo; John D., of further mention; 

■ Ann ; Peter G., married Eleanor F. Sickles ; 
Ellen. 

(IX) John D. Merselis, son and fourth 
child of Gerrit and Ellen (De Gray) Mer- 
selis, was born February 11, 1809, and died 
February 21, 1877. He married (first), 
July 4, 1829, Catherine Garritse ; (second), 
October 3, 1839, Esther Jane Berdan, 
daughter of John I. and Elizabeth (Goet- 
schius) Berdan. Children by first marriage : 
Mary, died unmarried ; Garrit, married 
Annie J. Zabriskie ; John Garritse, mar- 
ried Gertrude Van Blarcom ; Ellen Jane, 
married Nicholas J. Demarest ; Catherine 
Elizabeth, married Peter A. Van Houten. 
Children by second marriage : Anna, mar- 
ried Aaron K. Garrabrant ; David Henry, 
married Martha Jane Titus; Edo; Edo I., 
of further mention. 



(X) Edo I. Merselis, son of John D. and 
Esther Jane (Berdan) Merselis, was born 
in Oifton, New Jersey, September 17, 1847, 
and died in Paterson, New Jersey, Janu- 
ary 5, 1908. He was given a good educa- 
tion, a part of which was acquired in the 
grammar school in Paterson, and it was 
completed in a business college in New York 
City, from which institution he was gradu- 
ated. At the age of twenty-two years he 
secured a position with the Paterson Sav- 
ings Institution, of which he was one of the 
organizers, and was actively connected with 
the institution from its inception. Being 
eminently fitted for the work in the bank 
by reason of the excellent business educa- 
tion he had received, and his experience as 
a clerk in one of the other banks of the city, 
the fidelity of the young man won for him 
recognition, and he was advanced from time 
to time until he was considered one of the 
most valuable men in the banking rooms. 
Scores of men and women have waited pa- 
tiently for Mr. Merselis to be disengaged in 
order that they might personally obtain his 
advice in business matters. He won the 
confidence of the public many years ago, 
because he was a man who never practiced 
deception, doing the very best he could to 
help his fellow men in a way that would 
bring them the highest benefit. His death 
was a severe loss to the institution and to 
the entire city of Paterson. Mr. Merselis 
was also officially connected with the First 
National Bank of Paterson. For many 
years after his marriage Mr. Merselis lived 
in the old Merselis homestead at the corner 
of Water and Albion streets. He was h 
regular attendant at the Second Reformed 
Church near his home, an active worker in 
every department of it, holding the highest 
offices in the gift of the congregation. His 
example before the youth of the church, in 
the bank and among his friends, was al- 
ways one that might be followed with profit 
to all. For several years previous to his 
death Mr. Merselis lived on the East Side, 
but he continued 1' be faithful to the "over 



246 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



the river"' church. He was interested in 
every movement that was for the betterment 
of the city and its people. He was careful 
in expressing opinions and was a man who 
never swerved from what he believed to 
be right. His quiet and courteous manner 
was noticeable and his influence in the right 
direction on every question was marked. He 
advised always, as it was not in his disposi- 
tion to scold even when there was occasion 
for it. Tlie bank treasurer was noted for 
his regular habits, arriving at his daily du- 
ties at the proper hour, and performing his 
tasks in a conscientious manner. Mr. Mer- 
selis served five years as a private in Com- 
pany A, First Battalion, First Brigade, 
National Guard of New Jersey, and was 
honorably discharged, August ii, 1885. He 
was a member of the Independent Order of 
Odd Fellows, the North Jersey Country 
Club, and the Hamilton Club of Paterson. 

The home life of Mr. Merselis was ideal. 
His family always knew when to expect 
him home, and he never disappointed his 
friends. He loved the associations of his 
own fireside, and it can be said truly that 
his whole time was passed between his du- 
ties at the bank and the home circle. In 
social life he had many friends, and was 
a man who gave his acquaintances a warm 
welcome to his home ; but he found his chief 
happiness and source of contentment in 
those who were most nearly connected with 
him — his wife and children — to whom he 
was a devoted and loving husband and fath- 
er. The illness of Mr. Merselis was of 
short duration, and was of a very serious 
nature from its very commencement. He 
was at his duties the day after New Year's, 
although suffering from a severe cold, as 
were the other members of his family. He 
lost his strength rapidly, and on the Satur- 
day prior to his death, his family were in- 
formed by the physicians that his condition 
was a critical one, and the end probably 
not far off. 

Mr. Merselis married in Paterson, Sep- 
tember 21, 1869, Sarah V. Zeluff, born Sep- 

247 



tember 19, 1852, a daughter of John P. and 
Sarah Jane (Boone) Zeluff; granddaugh- 
ter of Peter and Margaret (Secor) Zekiff; 
and granddaughter of James and Catherine 
(Van Houten) Boone. The only child of 
this marriage is : Cilia Ardella, born in Pat- 
erson, August 16, 1870. She married, 
March 19, 1896, Leslie Van Wagoner, and 
has had children : Edith Merselis, born 
February 28, 1897 ; Isabelle Merselis, Jan- 
uary 29, 1899 ; Sarah Merselis, November 
16, 1900. 



COXE, John Redman, 

Physician, Professional Instrnctor. 

John Redman Coxe, M. D., was born in 
Trenton, New Jersey, in 1773. He was ed- 
ucated in the schools of Philadelphia, Penn- 
sylvania, studied for his profession in Scot- 
land, and in 1794 was licensed to practice 
medicine. He subsequently spent two years 
in professional studies in Europe, and after 
his return in 1796 began practice in Phila- 
delphia. He served as physician to the hos- 
pitals there, and in 1809 was appointed to 
the chair of chemistry in the LTniversity of 
Pennsylvania. In 1818 he was transferred 
to the chair of materia medica and phar- 
macy, and held it until 1835, when his col- 
leagues made a statement to the trustees de- 
claring the department of materia medica 
and pharmacy to be of too little importance 
to occupy the entire time of a professor, 
also asserting that Professor Coxe was in- 
competent to discharge the duties of the 
position, and recommending his removal 
from the faculty. This demand was car- 
ried into effect, much to the indignation of 
Dr. Coxe's friends. Dr. Coxe's subsequent 
record abundantly refuted the charge of 
incompetency. 

Dr. Coxe was the author of numerous 
works: "Inflammation" (1794); "Impor- 
tance and Respectability of the Science of 
Medicine" (1800); "Vaccination" (1802); 
"Combustion" (1811) ; "Emporium of Arts 
and Sciences" 2 volumes, (1812) ; "The 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



American Dispensatory (5th edition, 1822) ; 
"An Inquiry into the Claims of William 
Harvey to the Discovery of the Circulation 
of the Blood" (1834) ; "Recognition of 
Friends in Another World" (1845); ^"^ 
"The Writings of Hippocrates and Galen, 
epitomized from the original translations" 
(1846). He also translated Orfila's "Prac- 
tical Chemistry" (1818): and edited "The 
Philadelphia Medical Museum" from 1805 
to 181 1. He died in Philadelphia, Pennsyl- 
vania, March 22, 1864. 



DURAND, Cyrus and Asher B., 

Pioneer Engravers. 

Cyrus Durand was bom in Jefiferson, 
New Jersey, February 27, 1787, son of a 
watchmaker, and descended from Hugue- 
not ancestors. He learned the trade of his 
father, and added to it a knowledge of the 
construction of machinery, in which he 
found profitable employment during the en- 
forcement of the non-intercourse acts of 
the British Parliament. In 1814 he located 
in Newark, New Jersey, and engaged in 
business as a silversmith. He volunteered 
as a drummer in the United States army, 
and served three months during the war of 
1812-14. Returning home, in 1815, he con- 
structed machines for carding and weaving 
hair, to be used in manufacturing carpets. 
He then directed his attention to banknote 
engraving, and he made machines for lathe 
work and straight line engraving. This was 
apparently the beginning of geometrical 
lathe work, afterward universally used in 
banknote engraving. He also built machines 
for engine turning and transfer presses. He 
was chief of the Bureau of Engraving and 
Printing, Washington, D. C, for many 
years, and died in Irvington, New Jersey, 
September 18, 1868. 

He married Mrs. Phoebe Woodruff, who 
lived to be one hundred years old, and they 
had six children. Of these, Jane Wade be- 

248 



came the wife of the Rev. John L. Chap- 
man ; Elias Wade became a noted landscape 
painter ; and Rev. Cyrus B. Durand was 
rector of St. James' Church, Newark, New 
Jersey. 

Asher Brown Durand, a younger broth- 
er of Cyrus Durand, was born in Jefferson, 
New Jersey, August 21st, 1796. He learn- 
ed the art of engraving in the shop of his 
father, and in 1812 was apprenticed to Peter 
Maverick, engraver, with whom he became 
a partner in 1817. His engraving of "Trum- 
bulFs Declaration of Independence." his 
first large work, which cost him three years 
of labor, at once brought him into favorable 
notice. The National Portrait Gallery con- 
tains many of his heads ; and his "Musi- 
dora" and "Ariadne" are excellent speci- 
mens of art. After ten years' practice as a 
painter, he relinquished engraving in 1835, 
and devoted himself chiefly to landscape 
painting. His pictures are pleasing in color 
and tone, and evince a high degree of poet- 
ic feeling and appreciation. The principal 
of his figure-pieces are, "An Old Man's 
Reminiscences," "The Wrath of Peter 
Stuyvesant," "God's Judgment on Gog," 
"The Dance on the Battery," and "The Cap- 
ture of Andre." Among the more notable 
of his landscapes are, "The Morning and 
Evening of Life," a pair, "Lake Scene — 
Sunset," "The Rainbow" ; wood scene, 
"Primeval Forest," "In the Woods," "The 
Symbol," from Goldsmith's "Deserted Vil- 
lage." "Franconia Mountains," and "Rem- 
iniscences of Catskill Cloves." In 1854 he 
painted a portrait of the poet, William Cul- 
len Bryant. He was among the founders of 
the National Academy of Design, of which 
he was president, 1845-61. He died in South 
Orange, New Jersey, September 17, 1886. 
His son, John Durand, became a prominent 
art critic, and for several years conducted 
"The Crayon," a monthly publication spec- 
ially devoted to the fine arts. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



WOOD, George Bacon, 

Physician, Author, 

George Bacon Wood was born in Green- 
wich, Cumberland county, New Jersey, 
March 13th, 1797. He was educated at the 
University of Pennsylvania, from which he 
was graduated in 1815 with the degree of 
A. B., and in 1818 with that of M. D. He 
was Professor of Chemistry in the Phila- 
delphia College of Pharmacy from 1822 to 
1 83 1, Professor of Materia Medica from 
1835 to 1850, and Professor of the Theory 
and Practice of Medicine from 1850 to 
i860; he was also a physician in the Penn- 
esylvania Hospital from 1835 to 1859. 

He was the author of numerous and val- 
uable works, chiefly relating to his profes- 
sion, and which rank among the classics of 
the medical sciences. His first important 
work, "The Dispensatory of the United 
States," written in conjunction with Frank- 
lin Bache, M. D.. (great-grandson of Ben- 
jamin Franklin), the original edition being 
published in Philadelphia in 1833 (8vo., 
1073 pages), at once stamped him as one 
whose research and professional knowledge 
were of the highest order. It was thor- 
oughly exhaustive in its description of the 
many medicinal agents peculiar to American 
practice, indicating minutely their various 
properties and effects. During the lifetime 
of Dr. Wood it went through thirteen edi- 
tions, about 150.000 copies having been sold. 
Before 1830 there had not been any United 
States pharmacopoeia or standard list of 
medicines and their preparation whose au- 
thority was generally recognized. In the 
year mentioned, two such lists were offered 
to the public, one prepared in New York, 
the other chiefly the work of Dr. Wood. In 
a severe review. Dr. Wood completely dem- 
olished the first of these, and by writing the 
"United States Dispensatory" caused the 
authority of the other to be universally ac- 
knowledged. In 1847 he published a 
■"Treatise on the Practice of Medicine" 
(two volumes), which ran through six edi- 

249 



tions. the last being in 1867. He also pub- 
lished in 1856 a "Treatise on Therapeutics 
and Pharmacology," which had three edi- 
tions, (two volumes, 8vo., 1848 pages), and 
a volume containing twelve lectures, six ad- 
dresses and two biographical memoirs, in 
1859. It consisted of lectures and address- 
es on medical subjects, delivered chiefly be- 
fore the medical classes of the University 
of Pennsylvania. He also wrote "The His- 
tory of the Pennsylvania Hospital ;" "His- 
tory of the University of Pennsylvania"; 
"Biographical Memoir of Franklin Bache," 
etc. In the first and last of these pamphlets 
will be found an account of Wood and 
Bache's "Dispensatory and United States 
Pharmacopoeia," of which he, in connection 
with Dr. Bache and others, was editor of the 
editions of 1831, 1840, 1850 and i860. In 
1872 these memoirs, with the addition of 
the "History of Christianity in India," "The 
British Indian Empire," "Girard College," 
and other papers, were collected into a vol- 
ume entitled "Memoirs, Essays and Ad- 
dresses." In 1865 he endowed an auxiliary 
faculty in the University of Pennsylvania, 
consisting of five chairs : one of zoology 
and comparative anatomy ; one of botany ; 
one of geology and mineralogy ; one of hy- 
giene ; and one of medical jurisprudence, all 
of the subjects to be especially considered 
in their relation to medicine. Dr. Wood 
was president of the American Philosoph- 
ical Society in 1859 ; and for many years 
president of the College of Physicians in 
Philadelphia. He died in that city, March 
20, 1879. 



RUST, George P.. 

I.a\pyer, Public Official. 

Although not a native of Passaic or of 
the State of New Jersey, George P. Rust 
was so intimately connected with the pro- 
fessional interest of that city, in which he 
resided from boyhood, that few knew it 
was his adopted city. Of Holland and Ger- 
man parentage, one of a large family of 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



children, his start in life was humble, but 
by his own talent and energy he rose to a 
leading position among men of mark. He 
was a hard worker, and from the time he 
graduated from high school, at the age of 
fifteen, his life was one of intense appli- 
cation, but rewarded by abundant success 
as a lawyer, business man and citizen. 

George P. Rust, son of Andrew and Hen- 
rietta (Gerber) Rust, was bom in Brook- 
lyn, New York, March 9, 1861, and died 
in Passaic, New Jersey, April 21, 1913. He 
attended the Brooklyn public schools until 
he was twelve years of age, then accompan- 
ied his parents to Passaic, which was ever 
afterward his home. He there entered the 
high school, completing the course and grad- 
uating with the class of '76, ranking high 
in scholarship. He was determined to be- 
come a lawyer, and from graduation until 
he was twenty-one, he was office boy, clerk 
and law student in the offices of the late 
Henry K. Coddington, an eminent lawyer 
of Passaic. He was fully qualified for ad- 
mission to the bar, and in 1882. on attain- 
ing legal age, he was admitted an attorney 
at the first term of the court held after at- 
taining his majority. He at once began 
practice in Passaic, was admitted a coun- 
sellor at the June term, 1885. 

On February 25th, 1901, on the motion 
of the Honorable John W. Griggs, then At- 
torney-General of the United States, he was 
admitted to practice as an attorney and 
counsellor-at-law of the Supreme Court of 
the United States. He was hard working 
and painstaking, preparing his cases with 
the greatest care, and as he grew in experi- 
ence he became the peer of the strongest 
men of the Passaic bar. He was associated 
as counsel with many important cases, and 
at the age of twenty-six was appointed city 
counsel for the City of Passaic, serving 
from 1887 until 1894. In this capacity he 
was associated with John W. Griggs, later 
Governor of New Jersey and Attorney-Gen- 
eral of the United States, in the important 

250 



suit "The Newark .Aqueduct Board z'S. The 
City of Passaic," a celebrated case, to be 
found in New Jersey Law Reports, and 
which was a suit to prevent Passaic from 
sewering into the Passaic river. Another 
noted case in which he was counsel was, 
"In the matter of the application to con- 
firm an assessment for the construction of a 
sewer in the City of Passaic." He drafted 
the "King Law," under which a permanent 
board of assessors was created, a law that, 
although fiercely attacked and criticized, 
was declared by the courts to be constitu- 
tional. So well was that law drafted that 
it stood for nine years without amendment. 
After retiring from the office of city coun- 
sel, Mr. Rust resumed private practice, and 
when his earthly career closed, the finest 
eulogies pronounced were those of his legal 
brethren. He was a man of strong char- 
acter, high principles, was generous, just 
and upright, numbered his friends among 
all classes and was held in the highest es- 
teem. Mr. Rust was also actively connect- 
ed with Passaic's business interests and en- 
terprises. He was one of the organizers 
of the People's Bank and Trust Company, 
the Hobart Trust Company, and of the 
Guarantee Mortgage and Title Insurance 
Company, serving the latter as its first vice- 
president and general counsel. He was for 
twenty years proprietor of the "Passaic 
Daily News." He was elected a member 
of the board of education in 1886, and was 
ever a friend of the public school system. 
He was appointed on the first shade tree 
commission in Passaic, and took a lively 
interest for many years in the development 
of the beautiful trees for which the city is 
noted. In politics he was a Republican. He 
was of genial nature, and enjoyed the soci- 
ety of his friends and fellow meiubers of 
the State Bar Association, the Acquacka- 
nonk Club, the Passaic Club, the Yountakah 
Country Club of Passaic, and the Republi- 
can Club of New York City. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



FREEMAN, Alexander Hamilton, 

Progressive Citizen, Public Official. 

The name Freeman carries back in New 
Jersey to the signing of the "Fundamen- 
tal Agreement," October 30, 1666, Stephen 
Freeman having been one of the Milford 
signers. He was of EngHsh parentage, and 
one of the original settlers of Milford, Con- 
necticut, in 1646. Newark (New Jersey) 
records show that "Widow Hannah Free- 
man (survey of land 1667) hath for her 
division of upland lying near the Mountain, 
containing forty acres." Whether after the 
death of her husband about 1680, she mov- 
ed to the "Mountain" is not known, but 
her son Samuel inherited it from her, and 
his son Samuel (2) Freeman and his sons 
Deacon Samuel (3), Timothy, Abel and 
Thomas, it is said owned all the land lying 
between South Orange avenue on the south 
and the old cable road on the north. 

Deacon Samuel (3) Freeman was born 
at the "Mountain" homestead of his fath- 
er, in 1716. died in Orange, October 21, 
1782. Hie was elected deacon of the First 
Presbyterian Church of Orange in 1748, 
and held that office continuously until his 
death, thirty-four years. The contract for 
building the church edifice for the First 
Presbyterian Church of Orange was made 
by Samuel Freeman with Moses Baldwin. 

Joseph Freeman, youngest son of Deacon 
Samuel, and of the fifth American gener- 
ation, was a soldier of the Revolution, serv- 
ing with the Essex county militia. After 
the war ended, he moved to the Hudson 
Valley of New York, in Saratoga county. 
It is said one of his sons was chosen the 
first mayor of Schenectady. Another of 
his sons, Uzal W. Freeman, was a survey- 
or, laid out some of the streets in upper 
New York City, and is said to have made 
the first city maps of Paterson, New Jer- 
sey. He married Sarah Ann Angevine, of 
Huguenot descent, who settled in New Ro- 
chelle, New York. She was a daughter of 

251 



Gilbert Angevine, a soldier of the Revolu- 
tion. 

From this hardy, honorable stock came 
Alexander Hamilton Freeman, bom in New 
York City, December 30. 1810. died in 
Orange, New Jersey, December 16, 1883. 
At the age of seven years his father moved 
to Montville, Morris county. New Jersey, 
and four years later to Paterson, New Jer- 
sey. After attending school until sixteen 
years of age, he began learning the tin- 
smith's trade in Paterson. completing his 
years of apprenticeship, and becoming a 
high class workman. In 1836 he establish- 
ed a shop in Orange, on Main street, near 
Harrison, remained one year, and then re- 
turned to Paterson. In 1844 he again lo- 
cated in Orange, building a shop and res- 
idence on Main street, near Hillyer. As 
he prospered, he enlarged his business, pur- 
chased additional business property, erect- 
ed store buildings, and although twice a 
victim of costly fires, he rebuilt, prospered, 
and left behind him a name honored in bus- 
iness circles. His character was a strong 
uncompromising one. right was right, wrong 
was wrong, and there was no middle 
ground. He supported with all his energy 
every movement for the betterment of his 
city, and no man was held in higher esteem. 
Uprightness and energy were his dominant 
traits, and although for many years in offi- 
cial public life, no man ever questioned his 
integrity. For thirty years. Mr. Freeman 
held the office of justice of the peace : for 
ten years he was a member of the Orange 
board of education, and for four years he 
was a member of the city common council. 
His work for the public schools was con- 
tinuous and valuable. He was president of 
the board of education at the time of his 
death, and has left to posterity an elaborate 
history of the public schools of Orange. 

In politics he was a Republican, but before 
the founding of that party was an Abol- 
itionist : strongly championing the cause of 
the slave, and often offending those less ad- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



vanced in thought than himself. He was a 
delegate to the Buffalo Convention of 1842 
that nominated an Abolition ticket headed 
by James G. Birney for president, but when 
the Republican party made slavery an issue, 
he promptly allied himself with that party. 
He was an equally earnest worker for the 
cause of temperance, was a leading member 
of the Temple of Honor, (then a prominent 
temperance society), held all offices in the 
State society, and for one year was head 
of the national order. In religious faith he 
was a Presbyterian, belonging to the First 
Church of Orange, serving for several 
years as elder. He excelled in "good 
works" and left to his children a name be- 
yond reproach. 

iJMr. Freeman married Lucinda, daughter 
of Judge Benjamin Crane, for twenty-five 
years judge of Morris county courts. She 
was a lineal descendant of Jasper Crane, 
the founder of the Crane family in Essex 
county, whose son, "Deacon" Azariah, mar- 
ried a daughter of Governor Treat. Mrs. 
Freeman died August 5, 1889, and was laid 
to rest with her husband in "beautiful" 
Rosedale Cemetery. Children: i. J. Addi- 
son, M. D., a surgeon of the Union army, 
serving with the Thirteenth Regiment New 
Jersey Volunteers, and the United States 
Volunteer Corps appointed by President 
Lincoln, in charge of the United States Gen- 
eral Hospital, at Nashville, where he died 
of pneumonia, December 29, 1864. His 
body was brought to Orange, and buried in 
the family plot in Rosedale. He was aged 
thirty-one years, a graduate of Princeton, 
class of "52, and graduate of College of 
Physicians and Surgeons, M. D., class of 
'56, 2. Ginevra, now a resident of Orange, 
New Jersey. 3. Wilberforce, (q. v.). 



FREEMAN, Wilberforce, 

XiAvryer, Ijeader in Community Affairs. 

Wilberforce Freeman, younger son of 
Alexander Hamilton and Lucinda (Crane) 
Freeman, was born in Paterson, New Jer- 



sey, August 8, 1842, and died in Orange, 
June 19, 1907. He prepared in private 
schools, then entered Princeton College, and 
there was graduated at the head of the class 
of '64. Deciding upon the professon of law, 
he entered the Law School of Columbia 
University, and was graduated LL. B., class 
of '68. In 1871 he was admitted counsel- 
lor at law, and until his death was engaged 
in the practice of his profession in Orange, 
an honored member of the Essex county 
bar. He was junior member of the firm of 
Blake & Freeman, and conducted the larg- 
est practice enjoyed by any firm in the 
county outside of the city of Newark. 
He practiced in all State and Federal courts 
of the district, was a member of the county 
and State bar associations, and held in high 
esteem by his brethren of the profession. 

His public service was long and valuable. 
He was elected a member of the common 
council in 1868 ; succeeded his father as a 
member of the board of education in 1883, 
and served twelve years, most of that time 
chairman of the teachers committee ; served 
fourteen years as a member of the board of 
excise commissioners, was one of the three 
men composing the first board, and served 
until two months prior to his death, when he 
resigned, having been four times reappoint- 
ed. In 1869 with his partner, John L. 
Blake (afterward Congressman), he draft- 
ed the revised charter for Orange, they also 
drafting several ordinances necessary under 
the new charter. Among these was one de- 
vised by Mr. Freeman, under which it was 
possible for saloon keepers to be punished 
for "receiving and entertaining" people on 
Sunday. He was one of the active men of 
the Republican party, a hard worker, sound 
in judgment, and honest in every purpose. 

Among the financial institutions he served 
as attorney, was the Half Dime Savings 
Bank of Orange, his service beginning with 
its organization in May, 1870. Twelve years 
later he was elected president of the bank, 
an office he held until his death, twenty-five 
years later. At a special meeting of the di- 



252 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



rectors, the following resolutions were 
adopted : 

"The board of managers of the Half Dime 
Savings Bank of Orange hears of the death of 
Wilberforce Freeman, late president, with regret 
and believe that his loss to the bank is almost 
irreparable. He was connected with the bank 
officially from the date of its organization in 
1870, when he was elected counsel, until 1882, 
then was annually elected president until the date 
of his death. His efforts were untiring in pro- 
moting the interests of the institution, managers 
and depositors being indebted to him more than 
to any other man for its present prosperity. His 
judgment as to value was excellent, and invest- 
ments made under his supervision were safe with- 
out question. Guided by the same principles of 
strictest integrity, as in his private business, he 
considered his position one of the greatest trusts, 
and so directed its affairs as to absolutely pro- 
tect the interests confided to his care. Conserva- 
tive to a fault, leaning at times to a seeming 
depreciation, he never wavered in his insistence 
that no suggestion of the slightest enhancement 
of values, should be used for appearance sake 
His clearly considered guidance will be missed 
in our consultations and this tribute is ordered 
entered on our records as an evidence of our 
appreciation of his valuable and sustaining per- 
sonality and his usefulness to the public as a 
citizen and associate." 

Resolutions of respect and appreciation 
were also passed by the Essex County Bar 
Association, and out of respect for his mem- 
ory the District Court adjourned the after- 
noon of his funeral. The Half Dime Bank 
closed its doors that afternoon, as did the 
store of Hindle & Williams, a business 
founded by Alexander Hamilton Freeman. 

Mr. Freeman was a member of the New 
England Society, from 1871, served as vice- 
president, counsellor, and chairman of the 
committee on amendments. He was an ac- 
tive member of the New Jersey Historical 
Society, the Princeton Alumni Association, 
and the Washington Association. He was 
actively interested in the welfare of the Re- 
publican party, and served as a presidential 
elector for McKinley and Roosevelt in 1900. 
His clubs were the Essex County Country 
and the Lawyers. 



ROMEYN, Rev. Theodore Bayard, 

Revered Clergyman. 

The Rev. Theodore Bayard Romeyn, D. 
D., late of Hackensack, New Jersey, a noted 
divine of the Reformed Church in America, 
comes of a family which has been dis- 
tinguished in professional life for many gen- 
erations, and more especially in the ministry. 
A brief review of the earlier generations, 
appears appropriate here. 

Prior to the middle of the thirteenth cen- 
tury, Giacomo de Ferentino, an Italian 
gentleman, settled at Rongham Manor, Nor- 
folk, England, married Isabella de Rucham, 
a lady of that place, by whom there were 
two sons: Peter and Richard or Thomas 
They were sent to Rome to be educated, and 
after their return, Peter at least, took the 
surname of Romaeyn, Peter the Roman. Al- 
thougli educated for the priesthood, he mar- 
ried the daughter of Thomas de Leicester, 
whose wife was Agatha de Cringleford, of 
Norfolk. Peter Romaeyn devised property, 
made out leases, granted "charters," many 
of which still exist over the name assumed 
by him. His widow sold the property at 
Rongham in that name. In the third year 
of Edward II., 1387 A. D., Thomas Ro- 
Mayn was lord mayor of London. His 
arms (foreign) not granted in England, 
were described in the Register : "Argent on a 
fesse gules three crosses or. Crest : A deer's 
head erased." Soon after the above date, 
troubles broke out between the king and the 
House of Leicester, and many of this family 
and their adherents were obliged to flee the 
country. Some of them went to the "low 
countries." The name is spelled Romaine 
in France, Romain in England, and Ro- 
meyn in Holland. Jan Romeyn, of Amster- 
dam, Holland, was a descendant of the Eng- 
lish Romeyns. He had three sons : Simon 
Janse, Christofifel, and Class or Klass. In 
"Valentine's Manual of the Common Coun- 
cil of New York, 1863," we find the fac- 
simile signature of Simon Jansen Romeyn, 



253 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



1661 : in the Dutch church records of New 
York is the marriage, 1668, of "Simon Jan- 
sen Romeyn, young man from Amsterdam, 
and Sophie Jans, maiden from the Hague." 
ChristofTel and Glaus sailed from Rotter- 
dam for Brazil with the expedition of 
Prince Maurice. When Brazil was ceded to 
Portugal, they sailed for New Netherlands, 
and settled on Long Island, either in 
1654 or 1661, then removed to Hackensack, 
New Jersey, remaining about ten years, 
then to Greenwich, on the Island of New 
York. Glaus married Ghristianje or Styntie 
Albertse Terhune, May 2, 1680, of Ams- 
fort, now Gravesend, New York, and died 
at Greenwich, New York. 

John Romeyn, son of Glaus and Ghris- 
tianje Albertse (Terhune) Romeyn, mar- 
ried at Hackensack, New Jersey, in 1699, 
Lammatje Bougeart, and had seven chil- 
dren. 

Nicholas Romeyn, son of John and Lam- 
matje (Bougeart) Romeyn, married (first) 
Elizabeth Cutwater, and (second) Rachel 
Vreelandt. One of his grandsons, by his 
second wife, was the Rev. Theodoric Dirk 
Romeyn, D. D., who is largely quoted, and 
was among the most prominent American 
theologians of the earlier days. 

Rev. Thomas Romeyn, son of Nicholas 
and Elizabeth (Outwater) Romeyn, was 
graduated from the College of New Jersey 
in 1750, and then studied theology. After 
preaching on Long Island a few times, he 
went to Holland for ordination, and then 
settled on Long Island, at Jamaica, until 
i860. He died at Fonda, New York, and 
was buried under the pulpit of his church. 
He married (first) Margarita Freelinghuy- 
sen, (second) Susanna Van Campen. 

Rev. James Van Campen Romeyn, son 
of Rev. Thomas and Susanna (Van Camp- 
en) Romeyn, after proper preparation, 
studied theology under the Rev. Theodor- 
ic Dirk Romeyn, mentioned above. He was a 
trustee of Rutgers College, and had several 
charges, the last of which was the Reform- 
ed churches of Schraalenburg and Hack- 

254 



ensack. He married (first) Susanna, a 
daughter of Maus Van Vranken; (second) 
Mrs. Elizabeth Pell. 

Rev. James Romeyn, son of Rev. James 
Van Campen and Susanna (Van Vranken) 
Romeyn, was born at Blooming Grove, 
New York, in 1797, and died at New 
Brunswick, New Jersey, in 1862. He was 
graduated from Columbia College in 1816, 
and from the Theological Seminary at New 
Brunswick in 1819, and declined the title 
of Doctor of Divinity which was offered by 
Columbia College. He had charges in sev- 
eral places, and was a trustee of Rutgers 
College in 1842. He married Joanna Bay- 
ard Rodgers, daughter of John Richardson 
Bayard Rodgers, M. D., a leading physi- 
cian and professor at Columbia College, 
New York. 

Rev. Theodore Bayard Romeyn, D. D., 
second son of the Rev. James and Joanna 
Bayard (Rodgers) Romeyn, was born at 
Nassau, New York, October 22, 1827, and 
died in Hackensack, New Jersey, August 
18, 1885. His early education was acquir- 
ed in the schools of Catskill,Claverack (New 
York), Hackensack, and various other 
places, and he then became a student at Rut- 
gers College, from which he was graduated 
in the class of 1846, and had the distinction 
of delivering the honorary oration. He 
then matriculated at the Theological Sem- 
inary at New Brunswick, New Jersey, from 
which he was graduated in the class of 
1849. The degree of Doctor of Divinity 
was conferred upon him by Rutgers Col- 
lege. Immediately after his graduation he 
was called to preach at the Reformed 
Church at Blawenburgh, Somerset county, 
near Princeton, New Jersey, and remained 
in charge there from 1849 to 1865, when he 
was called to the First Reformed Church at 
Hackensack, New Jersey, and ministered 
there until his death, a period of twenty 
years. His death occurred after an illness 
of only a few hours, and was deeply de- 
plored not only by his relatives, friends and 
the members of his congregation, but by a 




)lsma^%u i^Ko^cti, 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



much wider circle, for it was only after he 
had passed away that the full extent of his 
broad minded charity became known. He 
had the broad religion of humanity, which 
believes that many roads lead to God, and 
that suffering should be relieved irrespec- 
tive of religious creeds. In a memorial 
volume published by the Consistory, we find 
the following interesting passage : "It is also 
worth a passing notice to observe the large 
ministerial circle of which he was a mem- 
ber by family ties. His maternal great- 
grandfather was Rev. John Rodgers, forty- 
four years pastor of the Wall Street Pres- 
byterian Church, New York City. His pa- 
ternal grandmother was a sister of Rev. 
Nicholas Van Vranken. In these several 
branches of relationship there are found 
nearly or quite forty names of those who 
have devoted themselves to the ministry of 
the Gospel, and of this number three-quar- 
ters belong to the Romeyn family." Dr. 
Romeyn married Amelia Augusta Letson, 
daughter of Johnson and Eliza (Shaddle) 
Letson. of New Brunswick, New Jersey, 
and they had children : Mary Letson. who 
died in infancy ; James A., at one time a 
member of the law firm of Romeyn & Grif- 
fin, in Jersey City, since 1894, editor of 
"The Evening Record," published in Hack- 
ensack. He married Flora M. Cochran, of 
Lancaster. Pennsylvania, by whom he had 
two children; married (second) Susie B. 
Conover, of Newark. 

In the pulpit. Dr. Romeyn presented a 
rrre combination of the intellectual and the 
emotional type of preaching. He delighted 
in the discussion of the great fundamental 
doctrines of our faith, and when these 
themes fully engaged him in public dis- 
course, he rose to veritable heights of elo- 
quence and power. His style was chaste, 
vigorous and incisive. Exquisitely sensi- 
tive to suffering, he entered into the sor- 
rows of other men with keen and sympa- 
thetic appreciation which, expressed in 
words, often healed the wounds of the 
stricken by their very gentleness and grace. 



Men of learning sought his companionship 
and found him a peer, yet he had a heart 
that reached out to the humblest and a 
ready sympathy quick in response. He was 
a man great and able, true and kind, and his 
life was as white as the sunlight. 



RHOADS, Charles. 

Man of Iiofty Character. 

"The path of the just is as a shining light 
which shineth more and more unto the per- 
fect day." The life of Charles Rhoads, of 
Haddonfield, was remarkable in his ability 
to combine noble Christian character and 
devotion to duty, with eminent success as a 
man of business in a great metropolis. His 
religious nature began its development when 
a very young boy and seventy years later 
the last entry in his journal, written but a 
few weeks prior to his death, shows truly 
the consecrated spirit of the writer : "I have 
been quite sick, and at times seriously so, 
but am now able to be about the house and 
am regaining my normal vigor gradually. 
It has been a season of deep proving as to 
my foundation on the only Rock, which will 
stand in the day of account. There seemed at 
one time but a narrow step between me and 
death ; and fervent have been my petitions 
that the work of sanctification might be 
completed before the day of probation is 
ended, and that an entrance might be grant- 
ed me, an unworthy servant, through the 
atoning blood of Jesus and the washing of 
regeneration by his Holy Spirit, into the 
mansions of rest, when the spirit should va- 
cate the earthly tenement. Truly I can say 
with the Psalmist, 'How excellent is thy 
loving kindness, oh God ; therefore the chil- 
dren of men put their trust under the shad- 
ow of thy wings.' Some assurance was 
felt in these times of trial that He would 
receive me for his mercies' sake." 

A birthright Friend, he never yielded to 
unbelief or to any disloyalty to the faith of 
Friends. In his sixtieth year he wrote : "I 
believe that the Society of Friends as an or- 



255 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ganization of Christian People has been a 
blessing to thousands who have been 
brought within its influence. I feel it to be 
the highest privilege of my life to have had 
my birth and education in a God fearing 
family and among pious people of our Soci- 
ety. The doctrines and principles maintain- 
ed by Friends since their rise and in which 
I was educated became early in life those of 
my conviction and deliberate judgment." 
He felt that he had received a call to the 
ministry, and engaged in it in 1866. His 
natural abilities, which were above the aver- 
age, were sanctified to the Master's use and 
that humility which marked his character 
was deepened as the sense of his Saviour's 
loving favor was heightened in his soul. 
His memoranda, however, refer repeatedly 
to the need he felt of spiritual food from 
Christ and the cleansing of His atoning 
blood. 

His character as a business man was 
marked by sterling integrity, coupled with 
intelligence and experience, excelling many 
of his profession, which caused him to be 
sought by friends and neighbors for advice, 
to whose application he ever gave a ready 
response. Referring to his success in bus- 
iness for several years previous he writes : 
"What shall I render unto the Lord for all 
His benefits? Grant, Oh Heavenly Father, 
that these blessings may not prove a snare 
to my soul and rob Thee of thai devotion of 
heart, soul, and time, which is Thy due." 

Those who were in trouble found in him 
a truly sympathizing friend. In 1866 he 
wrote in his journal : "It has been a subject 
of great concern with me in carrying on my 
business lest I should lose that delicate sense 
of responsibility to the Most High for all 
my time and powers through the engrossing 
character of my avocations. My religious 
obligations are clearly paramount to all oth- 
ers, and my mind has often been greatly 
straitened to arrive at a just discrimination 
of my duty in all respects. Truly, Oh ! 
Father, naught but thy wisdom can direct ; 
no less a power than Thine can keep me 

256 



from temptation and failure to duty through 
over anxiety about the care and support of 
my family." 

In 1872, after concluding to retire from 
active participation in business, he wrote, in 
regard to this step : "It is a relief of mind 
to think of being more free from the close 
attention which seems necessary to carry 
on a successful one in a large city; and it 
is my earnest desire and prayer that being 
so favored by the great Author of all our 
mercies, I may more assiduously devote the 
remainder of my time to His service." 
From that date until his last illness, thirty 
years later, Mr. Rhoads devoted himself to 
ministerial work, traveling and local, to 
Friends' schools and to the Friends' Book 
Store, and in combatting public forces for 
evil, that of intemperance claiming his earn- 
est efiforts for the prohibition of the liquor 
traffic and he was a potent factor in sup- 
pressing the race track evil at Gloucester, 
New Jersey. 

Calmness and dignity, tempered by cheer- 
fulness and affability, marked his inter- 
course with others. Firm in his convictions 
and fearless in their expression, yet with 
tenderness he found a place in the hearts of 
those with whom he came into contact. His 
reverential attitude in times of worship was 
most impressive. His ministry was clear, 
sound, and edifying. In vocal supplication 
his utterance was often in much brokenness 
and self distrust. Richly endowed with 
gifts, natural and Divine, he was a faithful 
steward of his Lord's goods. Using the 
talents bestowed, their gain was manifold. 
Advancing years and impaired health form- 
ed no excuse for neglect of the Master's 
work. In 1877 he wrote: "Pay thy vows 
unto the Most High. A sense of obligation 
is present with me. Oh, that it may be at- 
tended with his grace and strength to ful- 
fil it. We may be sensible of our duty but 
not devoted enough, not unselfish enough, 
to carry it out. To love him and adore in 
Spirit and in Truth we require to be trans- 
formed by the renewings of the mind, an 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



infusion of Christ's spirit. And shall we 
not have this ? Yes. He has said his Fath- 
er will give the Holy Spirit to them who 
ask him for it." In Haddonfield, so long 
his home, he was greatly beloved and rever- 
ed for his beautiful life, gentle spirit, firm 
advocacy of the right, and his zeal for the 
cause of righteousness. From one not of 
his faith, who yet sat under his teachings 
as a girl, comes this tribute, "He was a 
good man," and in all the wide circle of his 
acquaintance no other verdict was ever rend- 
ered concerning the pure life and Christian 
character of Charles Rhoads. 

He was of English forbears of Ripley, 
Derbyshire, England, the ancestral home of 
John Rhoads, the founder of the family in 
America. He came to Pennsylvania with 
his children in 1682, his wife, Elizabeth, 
having died in England prior to that date. 
He settled in Darby (Philadelphia), where 
he lived until his death, August 27, 1701. 
For several years he was a member of the 
Governor's Council. His youngest child, 
Joseph, upon attaining his majority became 
the owner of a good farm of two hundred 
and fifty acres in Marple township, Dela- 
ware county, Pennsylvania, established a 
tannery thereon and there resided until his 
death in 1732, at the age of fifty-two years. 
He married, July 2, 1702, Abigail, daughter 
of Richard Bonsai, who survived him 
eighteen years. 

James Rhoads, of the third American 
generation, son of Joseph and Abigail 
Rhoads, was born and grew to manhood on 
the Marple township homestead, of which 
he became the owner at the age of twenty- 
eight years. He improved the estate and 
extended its area, there residing until his 
death in 1798. He was of refined, gentle 
nature, loving and generous, doing unto 
others as he would be done by. As a bus- 
iness man he was very successful. He mar- 
ried, in 1745, Elizabeth, daughter of John 
and Hannah Owens. She died in 1795. 

The line of descent was through Joseph, 
son of James Rhoads, a great-grandson of 

257 

II-17 



John Rhoads, the founder, who married 
Mary Ashbridge, and their son, Joseph, 
who married Hannah Evans, of Philadel- 
phia, and resided on the homestead farm in 
Marple, and there his children were bom. 
Hannah Evans and a twin brother, James 
E. Evans, were born in Marple. Joseph 
and Hannah (Evans) Rhoads were devot- 
ed members of the Society of Friends and 
reared their children among the refining in- 
fluences of a truly Christian home. 

Charles Rhoads, son of Joseph and Han- 
nah (Evans) Rhoads, was born in Marple 
township, Chester county, Pennsylvania, 
first month 21, 1828. died in Haddonfield, 
New Jersey, first month 25, 1903. His 
early home training prepared him for at- 
tendance at Friends* School at Springfield, 
nearby, and several years later he complet- 
ed his studies at Westtown Friends' board- 
ing school. He was an apt scholar, and re- 
ceived from his instructors words of com- 
mendation for his accuracy and progress. 
At the age of sixteen years he left school, 
and for a year or two engaged with his 
father in labor on the home farm. He then 
decided to become a conveyancer, and began 
study in the law office of Andrew D. Cash, 
quickly evincing a great aptitude for legal 
study. At about the age of twenty years 
he began business in Philadelphia, making 
his home with his ma.ternal uncle, Charles 
Evans. He became well known in the bus- 
iness world, was a thorough master of the 
intricacies of real estate law and convey- 
ancing, and especially gifted in the writing 
of wills and legal papers. He was much 
sought for as an advisor on his specialties, 
such lawyers as John G. Johnson and other 
eminent attorneys being numbered among 
those who availed themselves of his skill. 
He continued a ver}' successful business 
man until 1872, then withdrew and there> 
after devoted himself largely to ministerial 
and philanthropic work. 

He fully realized his call to the ministry, 
and according to Friends' usage was so rec- 
ognized in 1866. As his gift in the ministry 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



became more and more apparent by renew- 
ed calls to service, tbe elders of the Month- 
ly Meeting in ninth month, 1872, decided to 
propose official recognition of his gift. In 
connection with this he wrote: "It is now 
nearly seven years since I first felt an obli- 
gation laid upon me to speak in the way of 
public ministry. During the intervening 
spirit of probation my spirit at times has 
almost fainted by the way, and I have been 
ready to e.xclaim with the prophet, 'Oh Lord 
God, behold I am a child, I cannot speak, 
yet I feel bound to acknowledge the un- 
bounded goodness of Israel's Shepherd.' It 
is no srrfall relief to my faltering spirit that 
those Friends who are constituted the 
judges of such affairs by our church dis- 
cipline are so satisfied with the genuineness 
of my commission to the high and holy call- 
ing of a minister of the Gospel of Christ. 
And now my hope is in him alone who 
is able to guide and keep his servants. And 
my prayer is unto the God of my life, that 
I may be endued with the armor of faith 
and humility, and not seek great things for 
myself." 

In 1877 he became greatly concerned 
over the unsettled state of affairs of the 
Society in Kansas, and receiving the approv- 
al of his Monthly and Quarterly Meeting 
s[)ent nine weeks in Kansas, visiting Friends 
and holding meetings at some of the agen- 
cies in Indian Territory. On this visit he 
was accompanied by John Sharpless. In 
1886, accompanied by his brother, Joseph 
Rhoads, he made a general visit to Friends 
of North Carolina. Before and after this 
period he was frequently engaged in min- 
isterial labors within the limits of his Year- 
ly Meeting, served on committees, was a true 
friend of Westtown Friends' school, and a 
member of the committee visiting it, was a 
member of the book committee, the meet- 
ing for sufferings, and was for many years 
a member of the New Jersey State Tem- 
perance Alliance, attending its meetings and 
using the opportunity to explain the relig- 
ious views of Friends. Among public of- 



fices he held that of secretary and treasurer 
of the Apprentices' Library of Philadelphia, 
was president of the Camden (New Jersey) 
Home for Friendless Qiildren, was a direc- 
tor of the Haddonfield National Bank, and 
was often chosen by his fellow citizens of 
Haddonfield as counsellor and arbitrator of 
borough affairs, they relying upon his 
knowledge, spirit of justice, and benevo- 
lence to safeguard them, free from entangle- 
ment. 

Charles Rhoads married, in 1856, Anne 1 
H., daughter of Samuel and Rebecca Mor- | 
gan Nicholson, of Haddonfield, New Jer- ' 
sey, and through that influence Haddonfield 
became his home. Anne H. Rhoads died in 
1864, the mother of four daughters — Mary, 
died in 1867 ; Catherine, single ; Eleanor, ] 
married William T. Elkinton ; Anna, mar- 
ried George G. Williams ; and a son, Samuel 
N. Rhoads, now a resident of Haddonfield. 

Mr. Rhoads married (second) in third 
month, 1870, Beulah S. Morris, daughter 
of Samuel Buckley and. Hannah (Perot) 
Morris, who survives him, a resident of 
Haddonfield. Their only child, a daughter, 
died aged nine months. Mrs. Rhoads was 
always her husband's co-worker in spirit- 
ual things, in philanthropy and charity. An 
active charity was ever maintained toward 
colored people, and personal visits were 
made to their homes, schools, and religious 
meetings. 

On his seventy-fifth birthday Mr. Rhoads 
was rapidly reduced by ill health, and on the 
following January 25, 1903, his life ended 
with the voice of praise to Him who had 
redeemed him to Himself. "There is no 
condemnation to those who are in Christ 
Jesus." were his last words. M 

JACKSON, 'William, 

Enterprising Citizen. 

In the analyzation of the character of a 
citizen of the type of the late William Jack- 
son, of Belleville, New Jersey, for many 
years a well known business man of New- 



258 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ark, we find all that is required to make a 
biographical sketch interesting to those who 
have at heart the good name of the com- 
munity honored by his residence, because it 
is the honorable reputation of the man of 
standing and affairs, more than any other 
consideration, that gives character and sta- 
bility to the body politic and makes the true 
glory of a city or State revered at home and 
respected abroad. In the broad light which 
things of good repute ever invite, the name 
and character of Mr. Jackson stand reveal- 
ed and secured and, though with no ambi- 
tion to distinguish himself in public position 
his career has been signally honorable and 
useful and it may be studied with profit by 
the youth entering upon his life work. At 
this point it seems eminently appropriate to 
devote a few words to the ancestral history 
of Mr. Jackson. 

The Newark family of Jackson is of 
English Puritan stock which settled in the 
North of Ireland about 1641. The name 
appears among the Anglo-Norman and Eng- 
lish families of the time of Henry II, and is 
found in the South of Ireland as early as 
1 100. Those coming from Ireland to Amer- 
ica are included under the title of Scotch- 
Irish, a name of American origin designat- 
ing the Protestant emigrants from Ireland, 
mostly Presbyterians, who were driven to 
this country by the stringent laws repress- 
ing manufactures in Ireland, enacted after 
the accession of William and Mary. In 
Ireland the family was first in Londonder- 
ry, in which county, near Giant's Cause- 
way, there is a place called Jackson Hall ; 
and a little later in Armagh. In the old 
cathedral there are still memorials of the 
family and their armorial bearings. The 
Jacksons of Forkhill, County Armagh, had 
for their motto: "Malo mori quam foe- 
dari," meaning "Better to die than to be a 
traitor." 

James Jackson, the first of the family 
in America, came from Forkhill, Coun- 
ty Armagh, early in the eighteenth cen- 
tury, accompanied probably by his wife 



and his brother, William Jackson. Family 
tradition says that he paid seventy guineas 
passage money. After a sojourn in New 
York or vicinity, during which the name of 
William Jackson appears in the records of 
the First Presbyterian Church, they remov- 
ed to Orange county, New York. The rec- 
ords of the town of Goshen show that in 
1721 they united with twenty-two others in 
a grant of property to the town for a church, 
school house, minister's house and ceme- 
tery. James Jackson appears to have sign- 
ed, at New Marlboro, Ulster county. New 
York, the revolutionary pledge agreeing to 
abide by the acts of the Continental Con- 
gress, in 1777. There is still in the family 
a Bible printed at Edinburgh with the in- 
scription, "I, James Jackson, Senior, do 
give this Bible to my grandson Peter Jack- 
son as his real property, the 27th day of 
September, 1779." He had six children, 
and one of his grandsons was the Rev. Abel 
Jackson, pastor of the First Presbyterian 
Church of Bloomfield, New Jersey. 

James Jackson, eldest son of James Jack- 
son, the immigrant, was bom in 1718, and 
died in 1795. He was one of the early set- 
tlers of New Windsor, Orange county. New 
York, Jackson avenue there being named in 
his honor. He owned vessels (sloops) en- 
gaged in Hudson river transportation, and 
was given the courtesy title of Commodore. 
Edgar's "History of Orange County" says, 
"The Jacksons are captains of their own 
sloops." He married three times. 

Peter Jackson, youngest son of James and 
Maria (Roome) Jackson, she being his sec- 
ond wife, was born at Pompton Plains, New 
Jersey, at the home of his grandfather, 
Peter Roome. December 13, 1777, and died 
in Newark, February 25, 1859. He lived 
with his parents at New Windsor, New 
York, until the death of his mother, when 
he was taken to Pompton Plains, and there 
educated by his aunts, Hester (Roome) Ac- 
ton and Deborah (Roome) Spear, who had 
no children of their own. For a time he 
was employed in the store of General Wil- 



259 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



liam Colfax (who had been captain of 
Washington's Life Guard, and later opened 
a store for himself at a place in Pompton 
Plains, still known as Jackson's Corner. 
Shortly after his marriage he removed to 
Acquackanonck, now Passaic, where he 
built a store adjoining his own wharf, and 
following the same line of business as his 
father and half-brothers, he despatched his 
vessels to Albany, New York, Virginia, 
Georgia, and the West Indies, supplying the 
country around as far as Newburgh and 
Philadelphia, with lumber, southern pro- 
ducts and general merchandise. He was 
appointed postmaster of Acquackanonck by 
President Madison in 1812, holding the of- 
fice until 1838. In 1839 he removed with 
his wife and youngest daughter and son to 
Newark, where some of his children were 
already settled, and there continued his bus- 
iness until his sudden death on the train 
between Newark and Jersey City. 

Peter Jackson married, May 16, 1802, 
Hester Van der Linde Brinckerhoff, who 
celebrated the one hundredth anniversary of 
her birth in Newark, January 30, 1882, at 
the home of her daughter, Mrs. Hubbell; 
she retained her faculties until her death, 
March 20, 1883. She was a daughter of 
Adrain W. and Adriana (Van der Linde) 
Brinckerhoff; a granddaughter of Dominie 
Benjamin Van der Linde, who was the first 
minister of the Dutch Reformed Church to 
be ordained in America; and also a grand- 
daughter of Colonel John and Elizabeth 
(Schuyler) Brinckerhofif, the former, who 
was of Fishkill, was a friend of Washing- 
ton and his home, built in 1738, was one of 
"Washington's Headquarters," the latter a 
great-granddaughter of Philip Pieterse 
Schuyler, the first Dutch governor of Al- 
bany. Children : James, for years engaged 
in business with his father, married Mary 
Stagg; John P., lawyer, editor, business man 
and statesman, married Elizabeth Hunting- 
ton Wolcott, of distinguished ancestry; 
Maria, died in infancy ; Maria, married 
Henry E. Van Winkle, a prominent lawyer 

260 



of New York City ; Eliza Van der Linde, 
married Amzi Armstrong, a well known 
lawyer of Newark ; Julia Ann, married Al- 
gernon S. Hubbell, a prominent Newark 
lawyer ; Jane, married Rev. Samuel W. 
Fisher, D. D., a Presbyterian minister, who 
became president of Hamilton College, and 
was afterwards connected with the Presby- 
terian Seminary in Cincinnati, Ohio; Wil- 
iam, whose name heads this sketch. 

William Jackson, son of Peter and Hes- 
ter Van der Linde (Brinckerhoff) Jackson, 
was born at Acquackanonck, now Passaic, 
in the large brick house recently occupied as 
a hotel on the River road, near the bridge 
leading to Hoboken via Carlstadt, Decem- 
ber 15, 1817, and died in Belleville, New 
Jersey, May 24, 1902. During his boyhood 
the Jackson property extended over the hill 
near the present City Hall, and on this prop- 
erty there was erected a private schoolhouse, 
in which a master, obtained by his father, 
taught his brothers and sisters and the chil- 
dren of such of the neighbors as he wished 
to have attend. His later schooling was re- 
ceived at Hackensack, at a prominent school 
for boys. His early business training was 
obtained as private secretary to his brother, 
John P. Jackson, while the latter was pres- 
ident of the Camden & Amboy Railroad 
Company, this being the earliest railroad in 
New Jersey. Later he engaged in the whole- 
sale lumber business, and retired from ac- 
tive business life in i860. For a time he 
was connected with the New Jersey Rail- 
road and Transportation Company and he 
was a director of the Firemen's Insurance 
Company. He spent many years in Euro- 
pean travel, and for the purpose of educat- 
ing his children. He removed from Newark 
to Belleville in i860, when he retired from 
business, and had his home there until his 
death. 

William Jackson married (first) Octo- 
ber 24, 1849, Helen Wilbur, who died Jan- 
uary 2, 1857, a daughter of Rodney and 
Charlotte (Denman) Wilbur; he married 
(second) October 17, i860, Elizabeth 



'6 




^^^^-€pc/ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Brinckerhoff McNulty, of Norwich, Con- 
necticut, who died August 23, 1901, daugh- 
ter of Marvin and Mary Jeannette 
(Brinckerhoff) McNulty. Children by the 
first marriage: i. Mary Louise, died in in- 
fancy. 2. Helen Wilbur, who married Wil- 
liam Gifford, and died in Portland, Oregon, 
May 4, 1881. 3. William Brinckerhoff, 
who resides near Washington, D. C, married 
(first) Emilie S., and had: Helen Wilbur, 
who married Edward B. Harran, of Ches- 
hire, England, and William B., Jr., living 
with his father. He married (second) Alice 
Richardson, and has: John BrinckerhoflF. 
Children by the second marriage: 4. Ed- 
ward Woolsey, born October 13, 1861 ; he 
was educated at Geneva and Heidelberg, 
and upon his return to America, lived in 
Belleville, New Jersey. He was elected to 
the New Jersey Assembly in 1890 and 1891 ; 
was one of the original members of the 
Essex County Park Commission in 1893 ; 
was elected surrogate of Essex County in 
1894, serving till 1899 ; an original member 
of the Essex Troop ; member of the Essex 
Oub, of the New Jersey Historical Society, 
and other well known organizations. He 
married, October 15, 1902, Frances Lock- 
wood Casebolt, daughter of George T. and 
Mary F. (Lockwood) Casebolt. Their only 
child, Edward Woolsey, Jr., was born Feb- 
ruary 7, 1910, and lives in Newark. 5. 
Percy, born May 21, 1863; was edu- 
cated in Geneva and Heidelberg; was 
graduated from Yale University in the 
class of 1885, and from Columbia Law 
School in the class of 1887. He resided with 
his parents in Belleville till their death, prac- 
ticing law in New York and New Jersey 
and taking an active part in local New Jer- 
sey politics, he was twice Democratic candi- 
date for the Assembly, and at one time 
Democratic Congressional candidate for his 
district. He was an early member of the 
Essex Troop, and is a member of the Uni- 
versity Club, and many other associations. 
He has been a resident of New York City 
since 1906. He married. November 4, 1910, 

261 



Alice Hooker Day, a daughter of John Cal- 
vin Day and Alice Beecher Hooker, of 
Hartford, Connecticut. 

Although always taking an active interest 
in public matters, William Jackson never as- 
pired to office, and never held public office 
other than such as related to city or town. 
In his municipal activities he was a hard 
worker, and was always in the forefront of 
movements tending to the betterment of his 
neighborhood. He was one of the earliest 
of those actively interested in the Newark 
Public Library, and at various times was 
director in companies in Newark. At the 
time of his death he was a member of the 
finance committee of the board of directors 
of the Firemen's Insurance Company. 



DOREMUS, Elias Osborn, 

Financier, Public Official. 

In the closing years of the seventeenth 
century there came from Holland to what 
is now Passaic, New Jersey, Cornelius Do- 
remus, who became a large land owner, and 
founded the prominent New Jersey family 
of which Elias Osborn Doremus, a late res- 
ident of East Orange, was representative in 
the seventh American generation. An In- 
dian deed of the Duck Purchase, dated May 
16. 1703, describing a large tract of land 
lying along the Passaic river, has the name 
of Cornelius Doremus attached as a witness, 
the conveyance being made by twelve In- 
dians, probably of the Hackensack tribe of 
Lenni-Lenapes. The name of the wife of 
Cornelius Doremus is not known, but his 
children were: Johannes, Holland, Thomas, 
Cornelius, Hendrick, Joris. 

Thomas Doremus, third son of Cornelius 
Doremus, was born at Acquackanonck 
(Passaic), New Jersey, and later became a 
resident of Wesel, same State, where he 
married Annekes Abrahmse Ackerman, a 
native of Hackensack, New Jersey, and they 
were the parents of six children : Cornel- 
ius, Goline, Abraham, Peter, Johannes, An- 
neke. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Cornelius (2) Doremus, son of Thomas 
Doremus, was a resident of Doremustown, 
New Jersey, a man of influence in the com- 
munity. He married Antje Young, who 
bore him ten children, among whom were : 
Hendricus, Thomas, Peter, Maritji, Johan- 
nes, Jannetji, Susannah, Alitta. 

Peter Doremus, son of Cornelius (2) 
Doremus, was born at Slotterdam, New Jer- 
sey, in 1744, and later resided near Beaver- 
town, same State, ranking among the repre- 
sentative citizens of that section. He mar- 
ried Polly Dey, and their children were: 
Jacob, Richard, Cornelius, Peter, and two 
daughters, one of whom became the wife of 
Henry Perry, and the other the wife of J. 
Speer. 

Cornelius (3) Doremus. son of Peter 
Doremus, was born in the vicinity of Beav- 
ertown. New Jersey, in 1787. He lived a 
life of usefulness, and was an honored and 
esteemed citizen. He married Jane DeHart, 
who bore him five children: Peter Cornel- 
ius : John Cornelius ; Sarah, became the wife 
of John R. Van Duyne, of Montville, New 
Jersey, and their only surviving child was 
Harrison Van Duyne, one of the leading 
citizens of Newark, New Jersey ; Mary, be- 
came the wife of Cornelius Cook, both now 
deceased ; Lydia, became the wife of Peter 
Van Houten, and after his death became the 
wife of Elias Littell, of Montclair, New 
Jersey, both now deceased. 

Peter Cornelius Doremus, son of Cornel- 
ius (3) Doremus, was born April 9, 1807, 
died June 30, 1869. He was reared and ed- 
ucated in his native town, and in the year 
1829 removed to Orange, New Jersey, and 
there spent the remainder of his days, re- 
spected by all with whom he was brought 
in contact, whether in business or social life. 
He married Julia A. Osbom, daughter of 
John H. Osborn, born in Bloomfield, New 
Jersey, in 1770, and his wife, Rhoda 
(Baldwin) Osborn, who was a daugh- 
ter of Zophar Baldwin, who served with 
the Essex County Militia in the Rev- 
olutionary War. Zophar Baldwin was 



the son of David Baldwin, son of 
Benjamin Baldwin, son of Joseph Baldwin, 
son of John Baldwin, a signer of the Funda- 
mental Agreement. Giildren of Mr. and 
Mrs. Doremus : Mary Cook, who became 
the wife of Charles Clark ; Julia A., who 
became the wife of David J. Rogers ; Elias 
Osborn, of whom further. 

Elias Osborn Doremus, son of Peter Cor- 
nelius Doremus, was bom in Orange, New 
Jersey, January 17, 1831, died at his res- 
idence in East Orange, May 13, 1907. He 
was educated in the public schools of 
Orange, and after completing his studies 
began an apprenticeship with his father, 
who was one of the leading builders of his 
day. He succeeded to his father's business, 
having as his partner his brother-in-law, Al- 
fred Jones, and they continued building op- 
erations until 1874, under the name of Jones 
& Doremus, theirs being the largest building 
finn in all the Oranges. From 1874 until 
his death, Mr. Doremus was intimately con- 
nected with insurance and banking corpora- 
tions, and he was also largely interested in 
the development of that part of Orange now 
East Orange, and with the Baldwins platted 
an important addition of forty acres. In 
1 876 he was elected a director of the Amer- 
ican Insurance Company of Newark, in 
1 88 1 he became its vice-president, and in 
1899 was elected president to succeed Fred- 
erick H. Harris, which office he held until 
his death, but in 1905 ill health compelled 
him to relinquish the greater portion of the 
active burden of executive manager. He 
was a director of the Orange National Bank 
for several years, but withdrew from that 
directorate several years prior to his death. 
He was for many years a member of the 
board of managers of the Orange Savings 
Bank, never relinquishing his managerial in- 
terest in that institution. He was also at 
different times a director of the Newark 
City National Bank, the National Newark 
Banking Company, and the United States 
Industrial Insurance Company. He was a 
member of the Newark Board of Trade, 



262 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



and a member of the original board of man- 
agers of Rosedale Cemetery, serving for 
many years as president of this board. 

Able and efficient as a business man, Mr. 
Doremus gave to the public as legislator and 
freeholder considerable of his valuable time, 
city, county and State benefitting thereby. 
He was elected freeholder in 1868, and 
through successive re-elections held that of- 
fice for seventeen years, seven of them as 
president of the board. In 1872 he was the 
choice of the Republican party as represen- 
tative to the State legislature and in 1873 
was re-elected, his district being the old sec- 
ond. In the legislature he tendered impor- 
tant service as chairman of the committee 
on ways and means, chairman of the com- 
mittee on education, and through member- 
ship of other important committees of the 
house. Two notable measures that he 
strongly championed became laws most val- 
uable in their results : The compulsory ed- 
ucation and the general railway laws. 

Through his Colonial and Revolutionary 
ancestors he was eligible to many societies, 
and held membership in the New England 
Society of Orange, Sons of the American 
Revolution (of which he was one of the 
managers) and the New Jersey Historical 
Society. He was a member of the Masonic 
order for fifty-five years, receiving his 
Master Mason's degree in Union Lodge, 
Free and Accepted Masons, in 1852. Later 
he was a charter member of Corinthian 
Lodge ; he was a companion of Orange 
Chapter, Royal Arch Masons, and a Sir 
Knight of Damascus Commandery, Knights 
Templar, of Newark. He was an active and 
consistent member of the Presbyterian 
church, affiliating with Brick Church, East 
Orange. This brief record of the impor- 
tant activities of his life show Mr. Dore- 
mus to have been a man possessing the full 
confidence of his fellow-men. This was 
shown in his elevation to important public 
and private trusts, and by the close com- 
munion he held with influential men 
throughout the active years of his life. His 



executive ability was of a high order, his 
personal character above reproach. 

Mr. Doremus married, in 1855, Harriet 
Peck, daughter of William Peck, and de- 
scendant of Joseph Peck, a signer of the 
Fundamental Agreement in New Haven, 
Connecticut, in 1639. Children : Emily, 
died at the age of eight years; Edwin Pat- 
erson, who after a brilliant and successful 
but brief business career, died May 24, 1895, 
aged twenty-seven years ; Frederick Halsey, 
a merchant and importer of New York City ; 
Fannie, became the wife of George F. Bas- 
sett, who died May 24. 1891. 



CRANE, John Williams, 

Jurist, Man of Affairs. 

John Williams Crane, son of Moses Mil- 
ler and Phoebe Stiles Williams Crane, was 
born at the old homestead that had been the 
birthplace of the Crane family for four 
generations, on December 23rd, 1834. and 
passed away at the same place, now known 
as No. 556 Morris avenue, Elizabeth, New 
Jersey, on December 31st, 1913. He was 
a direct descendant of Stephen Crane, one 
of the original Elizabethtown Associates 
who settled at that place in 1664. 

He obtained his early education under 
Mr. Frederick W. Foote, at that time prin- 
cipal of the Old Noith End school, later 
attending Mr. James C. Nuttman's school 
in Elizabeth. He married, at Elizabeth, 
New Jersey, on December 21st, 1859, Anna 
Elizabeth, daughter of John and Nancy 
Lyon Wilson. The issue of this marriage 
was Moses Miller, born January 15th, 1864, 
and Henry Wilson, born May 7th, 1874. 

The record of business successes that sur- 
vives him is one that speaks truthfully of 
able powers, upright endeavor and industry, 
a reputation gained through more than fifty 
vears connection with extensive real estate 
and insurance operations. To an active and 
useful business career he added long and 
honorable public service, and during his ma- 
ture years was constantly and closely iden- 



263 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



tlfied with the Democratic organization in 
his county, serving as a member of the 
county committee for thirty-eight years. His 
intimates knew him as a loyal and true 
gentleman, his business associates as a man 
of honor and responsibility, and Judge 
Crane, as he was universally known, from 
his judicial services in the Court of Com- 
mon Pleas, ever stood in a position of re- 
gard and respect ; his death severed the 
many and closely knit ties that bound him to 
his community, but all his works were good, 
and so likewise must be his reward. 

In November, 1862, he was appointed 
clerk in the office of the county surrogate, 
the incumbent of the office at that time be- 
ing Robert S. Green, subsequently Gover- 
nor of New Jersey. In the year that he 
accepted his position under Mr. Green, he 
was elected to membership in the Union 
County Board of Freeholders, filling his po- 
sition on that board for three terms. Upon 
retiring from the clerkship in the surro- 
gate's office, he entered the business to 
which he devoted his lifetime, forming a 
partnership in the real estate and insur- 
ance business with A. Denman Mulford, 
under the firm name of Mulford & Crane. 
Mr. Mulford changing his residence to a 
western state, Mr. Crane and former sheriflf 
Frederick F. Glasby entered into a similar 
association, the latter partnership being dis- 
solved in 1879. From this date until his 
death, Mr. Crane was engaged independent- 
ly in operations in real estate and insurance, 
and rose to leadership in these lines, being a 
director and for a number of years vice-pres- 
ident of the National Fire and Marine In- 
surance Company of Elizabeth. His knowl- 
edge and ability were frequently called into 
service for e.xpert testimony in relation to 
real estate matters. His business interests 
were extensive, his management showing 
administrative faculties of a high order, and 
he used his talents for the benefit of his 
clients with general satisfaction. He serv- 
ed many times on commissions whose duties 

264 



were the determination of property values, 
and in May, 1886, he was appointed by Jus- 
tice Van Syckle one of the commissioners of 
adjustment of the arrears of taxes and as- 
sessments of the city of Elizabeth. Mr. 
Crane's associates on this commission were 
ex-Governor George C. Ludlow and F. L. 
Heidritter. The work was successfully ac- 
complished and the result not only proved 
of great material benefit to the City but also 
gained high public endorsement. 

Judge Crane was a member of the congre- 
gation of the First Presbyterian Church of 
Elizabeth, where his ancestors had worship- 
ped for the past two and a half centuries. 
He was a member of the Underwriters As- 
sociation of Elizabeth, a director in the New 
Jersey Agricultural Society from the time 
of its organization, and for about twenty 
years was a director of the old First Nation- 
al Bank of Elizabeth. He possessed a wide 
acquaintance in his county and northern 
New Jersey, was everywhere gladly receiv- 
ed and enjoyed the confidence and regard of 
all who knew him. 

He was a lifelong Democrat and promi- 
nently identified with that party. In 1894 
he was honored by an appointment by Gov- 
ernor George T. Werts to the position of 
Associate Judge of the Court of Common 
Pleas for a five year term, occupying the 
bench with Judge Thomas F. McCormick 
and Judge Louis S. Heyer, but two years of 
his term had expired when associate judge- 
ships were abolished by legislative enact- 
ment ; his appointment by the Governor met 
with widespread approval that continued 
throughout his brief occupancy of the posi- 
tion. Mention has previously been made of 
the intimate connection of Judge Crane with 
Democratic councils in Union county. Broad 
in his views and generous in his politics, as 
in all things respecting the privileges and 
rights of his fellows, he nevertheless upheld 
his party with unchanging fealty, supporting 
his sincere faith in its principles at every 
turn. At an executive session of the Union 




cd^>^}/rU^^;^i^7' 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



County Democratic Committee resolutions 
of regret and condolence were adopted, 
which read as follows : — 

Honorable J. Williams Crane, a member of this 
committee, died at his home in Union township, 
on the thirty-first day of December, Nineteen 
Hundred and Thirteen. Judge Crane, as he was 
familiarly called, was a veteran member of this 
committee, serving continuously from 1875 up 
to the time of his death, his services covering 
a period of thirty-eight years, and during thirty- 
three years of that period, from 1878 to 1912, 
he served the committee in the capacity of treas- 
urer. 

During all these years he was faithful in his 
attendance at committee meetings, and discharged 
his duties both as member and officer in a man- 
ner which won for him the confidence and re- 
spect of his colleagues. He was indeed a familiar 
figure at its gatherings, as he was on every oc- 
casion which called the leaders of his party to- 
gether in conference and convention. 

Desiring to record his services and the great 
loss which individually and collectively we have 
sustained, the members of the Union County 
Democratic Committee, in regular meeting as- 
sembled. 

Resolved, That in the death of the Honorable 
J. Williams Crane, we suffer an irreparable loss, 
leaving a void in our ranks which no one else can 
fill. As a citizen. Democrat, official and jurist, 
his conduct was above reproach ; in fact, it was 
ideal, and we extend to his family our heartfelt 
sympathy at his loss ; and be it further 

Resolved, That this modest tribute of our 
esteem be spread in full on the records of the 
organization and an engrossed copy thereof be 
prepared and presented to the family of our de- 
parted friend and colleague. 



WRIGHT, Major Edward Henry, 

Ci-ril War Veteran, Ideal Citizen. 

Among the men of exceptional devotion 
to duty in the city of Newark, New Jersey, 
of inflexible determination to do that which 
was right and just, despite criticism, the 
name of Edward Henry Wright took a fore- 
most place. Intense patriotism was one of 
the fine qualities he inherited from a dis- 
tinguished ancestry, and when the occasion 
arose, he was among the first to give his 
services for his beloved country. There is 

26s 



both propriety and satisfaction in giving a 
review of the life of a man who has really 
achieved, and when the achievement is of so 
varied a character and of so wide spread an 
influence, as is the case here, it almost be- 
comes a matter of necessity that the review 
should be written in order to serve as an ex- 
ample to future generations. 

Edward Henry Wright was born in New- 
ark, New Jersey, April 5, 1824, and died 
September 17, 1913. After preparatory 
training at St. Paul's School, College Point, 
Long Island, New York, he matriculated at 
Princeton College, New Jersey, and was 
graduated from that institution with the de- 
gree of Bachelor of Arts in the class of 
1844, the degree of Master of Arts being 
conferred upon him in 1847. He commenc- 
ed reading law under the preceptorship of 
Alexander Hamilton, of New York, pursu- 
ed it with Archer Giflford, of Newark, then 
in the Law Department of Harvard Univer- 
sity, and was admitted to the bar of New 
Jersey in 1847. I" 1848 and 1849 he travel- 
ed and studied in Europe, thus obtaining a 
knowledge of European affairs which was 
of great benefit in his subsequent career. 
Upon his return to the United States, Pres- 
ident Tyler appointed him secretary of the 
United States Legation at St. Petersburg, 
Russia, in May, 1849, and he retained this 
office, representing his native country with 
dignity, until the close of the administration 
of President Tyler. His support of the 
Democratic party extended over a period of 
half a century. 

In 1 86 1 he was one of the first to volun- 
teer his services in the Union army, and in 
May of that year was appointed major of 
the Sixth United States Cavalry, and aide- 
de-camp on the staff of Lieutenant-General 
Winfield Scott, with the rank of colonel, 
and held the same rank on the staff of Gen- 
eral George B. McClellan, upon the retire- 
ment of General Scott. On the Peninsula 
of Virginia and during the Maryland cam- 
paign, Major Wright rendered such signal 
service, that he was twice breveted for gal- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



lant and meritorious conduct. At the close 
cf the Maryland campaign he was ordered 
to report with his commander at Trenton, 
New Jersey, after which he returned to the 
duties of civil life. He became interested 
in a variety of enterprises, and held official 
position in a number of them, as follows : 
Director of the Mutual Benefit Life Insur- 
ance Company, the Firemen's Insurance 
Company and the Newark Gas Company ; 
member of the board of trustees of the Epis- 
copal Fund of the Division of Newark ; 
president of the board of managers of the 
New Jersey Home for Disabled Soldiers, 
being the active executive officer of the 
board for a quarter of a centiiry. He was 
companion in the Military Order of the 
Loyal Legion of the United States ; mem- 
ber of Marcus L. Ward Post, No. 88, Grand 
Army of the Republic, in which he held 
office as commander and past commander ; 
member of the Essex Club of Newark, and 
served as vice-president several terms ; and 
affiliated with the Union Club of New York 
City. He was a member of the Episcopal 
church, and for a period of fifty-four years 
a devout communicant of the parish of the 
House of Prayer of Newark, and active in 
its support. 

Major Wright married, in A.scension 
Church, New York City, October 9, i860, 
Dorothe Eliza Mason, who was born at the 
home of Thaddeus Phelps, No. 23 Park 
Place, New York City, at that time one of 
the finest residential sections. She was a 
daughter of Stevens Thomson and Julia 
(Phelps) Mason, the former the first gov- 
ernor of the State of Michigan, and found- 
er of the University of Michigan. Major 
and Mrs. Wright had children: Minerva, 
married Rowland Parry Keasby ; William 
Mason, at one time major of the Eighth In- 
fantry, and stationed at Monterey, Califor- 
nia, married Marjorie Jerauld ; Emily Vir- 
ginia ; Julia Phelps ; Katherine Maria ; Dora 
Mason, married Chauncey G. Parker ; Edith 
Howard ; Amabel Phelps ; Edward Henry, 
Jr., married Caroline Lesher Firth. 

266 



The time and means of Major Wright 
were ever freely given to the interests of the 
public, and he ranked among the best citi- 
zens. Liberal in his views without being 
radical, his ideas in many instances were in 
advance of his time, but later events have 
proven the wisdom which underlay them. 
Thoroughness, devotion to work and an un- 
shakable integrity furnished the keynotes to 
his business character, the other side of 
which showed the broad-minded Christian 
gentleman, with charity and sympathy for 
all classes, creeds and conditions. 



WRIGHT, William, 

Prominent Manufacturer, Business Man. 

It has been universally conceded that the 
busiest men are those who always have time 
to spare in order to assume additional du- 
ties, and apparently they are able to accom- 
plish wonders. The very simple principle 
lying at the root of this state of affairs is 
systematic and methodical work. Every 
moment of time is given its full valuation, 
and every phase of life is appreciated in 
proportion to the useful work which has 
been faithfully performed. A man who 
was a fine exponent of this admirable class 
of men was William Wright, manufacturer, 
financier and statesman, whose efforts in be- 
half of the welfare and improvement of 
the community were unremitting, and who 
was successful in the accomplishment of 
projects which a less energetic and enter- 
prising man would have lost courage in es- 
tablishing. 

William Wright was born in Clarkstown, 
Rockland county, New York, November 13, 
1794. and died in Newark, New Jersey, No- 
vember T, 1866. He was a son of Dr. Wil- 
liam Wright, who was graduated from Yale 
College in the class of 1774, and a lineal de- 
scendant of Benjamin Wright, who emigrat- 
ed from England to Virginia in 1645, re- 
moved to Guilford, Connecticut, five years 
later, and not long afterward to a farm at 
the mouth of Wright's river, near Saybrook,, 



I 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Connecticut, where the family has lived for 
a number of generations. He was the recip- 
ient of a thorough college preparatory edu- 
cation in Poughkeepsie, New York, but was 
obliged to forego entering college by reason 
of the death of his father in 1808, this ne- 
cessitating his taking a business position at 
once. He found this in Bridgeport, Con- 
necticut, where he became an apprentice in 
the harness manufacturing business of An- 
son G. Phelps, and while there volunteered 
against the British in the defense of Ston- 
ington. Some years later, in association 
with William Peet and Sheldon Smith, he 
was one of the organizers of the firm of 
Peet, Smith & Company, manufacturers of 
saddlery and harness, and so successful did 
this enterprise prove, that a branch house 
was established in Charleston, South Caro- 
lina. 

Newark, to which city Mr. Wright mov- 
ed in 1821, was the next scene of his ac- 
tivity, and he became a partner in the firm 
of Smith & Wright, later members of the 
firm being Messrs. Hanford Smith, Edwin 
Van Antwerp and William S. Faitoute. This 
soon became the most noted establishment 
of its kind in the city, and was the leader in 
the manufacture of leather goods in the 
State, and most probably in the United 
States, of that period. The factory was lo- 
cated at the southeast corner of Broad and 
Fair streets, and Mr. Wright was the lead- 
ing spirit in its affairs until his retirement 
when he was about sixty years of age. A 
number of other important business enter- 
prises of the city had the benefit of his co- 
operation, among them being the Newark 
Mechanics' Bank, the Mechanics' Insurance 
Company and the Newark Savings Institu- 
tion, in all of which he held official position, 
being president of the last named from its 
organization until his death. The Morris 
& Essex railroad had the benefit of his ex- 
ecutive ability from the time of its organi- 
zation until death called him away. The 
manifold demands made upon the time of 
Mr. Wright by his weighty business re- 

267 



sponsibilities did not prevent him from fol- 
lowing public aflfairs with the closest atten- 
tion, greatly to the benefit of the communi- 
ty in which he resided, and the country at 
large. His earlier political affiliation was 
with the Whig party, and later his princi- 
ples were those of the Democratic party. He 
was honored by election as mayor of New- 
ark in 1840, as a representative of the Whig 
party, and filled this office with distinguish- 
ed ability for a period of three years. In 
1842, while still in office as mayor, he was 
nominated, and later elected, to Congress, 
defeating William B. Kinney, later minister 
to Italy. Mr. Wright was re-elected in 1844, 
and served in the House of Representatives 
from December, 1843, ""t'l March, 1847, 
and was considered one of the ablest men of 
these sessions. In 1847 he was elected for 
the office of governor of the State of New 
Jersey, but was defeated. Henry Clay al- 
ways received his active support as a pres- 
idential candidate, and he was a delegate 
from New Jersey to the national convention 
of 1848. During the administration of 
President Fillmore, Mr. Wright was 
among those who abandoned the Whig 
party, deeming the principles supported by 
the Democratic party best suited to the 
needs and development of the country, and 
from that time forward, the Democratic 
party had no more ardent advocate than he. 
In the campaign of 1852 he was an active 
worker in the interests of the Democratic 
nominees and his reputation and influence 
were of great advantage to the party in 
many directions. He was elected to the 
Senate of the United States by this party, 
his term extending from March 3, 1853, to 
March 3, 1859, was succeeded by a Repub- 
lican, whom he succeeded in 1863, and again 
was chosen to serve a full term. During his 
first term in this honorable body he was 
chosen chairman of the committee on man- 
ufactures, and during his second term he 
was a member of the committees on manu- 
factures, public lands and revolutionary 
claims. His death occurred while he was 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



serving his second term as a United States 
Senator. For many years he was a member 
of the Episcopal Qiurch, a hberal supporter 
of this institution, and a prominent commu- 
nicant of the Newark House of Prayer. 

Mr. Wright married, September 2, 1819, 
Minerva, a daughter of William and Jemi- 
ma (Tomlinson) Darrow, and they had chil- 
dren : Frederick William, born May 21, 
1820; Catherine Maria, born March 23, 
1822; Edward Henry, a sketch of whom 
also appears in this work. Mr. Wright was 
a man of broad and liberal ideas, and his 
stern integrity was recognized in the busi- 
ness world. He combined an extraordinary 
genius for administration with indomitable 
perseverance, and his self-reliance never 
failed him. Genial, yet dignified, in his man- 
ner, he won the respect of those with whom 
he had relations in the business, social and 
political world, and the affection of a large 
circle of friends. In his home life he was 
a loving and devoted husband and father. 



PLUM, Stephen Haines, 

Mannfacturer, Man of Affairs. 

The late Stephen H. Plum, who through- 
out his active and honored life was a prom- 
inent and influential citizen of Newark, 
trusted and esteemed for his excellent char- 
acteristics, winning and retaining the confi- 
dence of all with whom he was brought in 
contact, whether in business, religious or 
social life, was a worthy representative of 
a family of prominence, whose names are 
prominently connected and associated with 
the States of Connecticut and New Jersey, 
especially the latter, from its early history 
down to the present time, a family conspic- 
uous for its men of sterling probity and in- 
tegrity, active and public-spirited, progres- 
sive and enterprising. The name has been 
variously spelled during the preceding gen- 
erations, Plume, Plumb, Plumbe being some 
of the forms. The coat-of-arms of the 
Plume family are as follows : Ermine, a 

268 



blend vair or and gules cottised vert. Crest 
(English) : Out of a ducal coronet or, a 
plume of ostrich feathers argent. The 
Plumbs are an ancient Norman family, and 
are traced back to Normandy, A. D., 1180, 
and in England to A. D., 1240. In Ameri- 
ca the Plumes and Plums are among the old- 
est New England Colonial families. 

John Plume, progenitor of the branch of 
the family herein recorded, a son of Robert 
and Grace (Crackbone) Plume, was bom in 
Spaynes Hall, at Great Yeldham, Essex, 
England, from which country he removed 
to the New World, locating in Wethersfield, 
Connecticut, in 1635. and there became a 
prominent and influential citizen. His wife 
Dorothy bore him eight children, among 
whom was Samuel. His death occurred in 
Branford, Connecticut, in 1648. Samuel 
Plum, son of John and Dorothy Plume, was 
born in England, January 4, 1625-26, died 
in Newark, New Jersey, January 22, 1703. 
He was also a resident of Wethersfield and , 
Branford, Connecticut, removing to Newark I 
in 1668. He married, name of wife un- 
known, and among his children was John , 
Plum, bom in Branford, Connecticut, Oc- I 
tober 28, 1657, died in Newark, New Jer- 
sey, July 12, 1710. He accompanied his 
father and the family there in 1668, and 
there spent the remainder of his days. He 
married Hannah Crane, who bore him five 
children, among whom was John Plume, 
born in Newark, New Jersey, about i6g6, 
died there, after 1785. His entire life was 
spent in that city, and he appears to have 
been one of the few who wrote his surname 
Plume. He married (first) Joanna Crane, 

and (second) Mary , and among the 

children of his first wife was John Plum, 
born in Newark, New Jersey, about 1743, 
died there, about January, 1771. He mar- 
ried Susan Crane, who bore him four chil- 
dren, among whom was Matthias Plum, 
bom in Newark, New Jersey, 1768, died 
there, in 1852, having spent his entire life in 
his native city. He married Phebe Wood- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ruff, who bore him five children, among 
whom was Stephen Haines, of whom fur- 
ther. 

Stephen Haines Plum, born in Newark, 
New Jersey, January 7, 1800, died there, 
April II, 1885, having long passed the al- 
lotted span of three score years and ten. 
After completing his studies in the common 
schools of his native city, he entered upon 
an apprenticeship to learn the trade of shoe- 
making, remaining until he thoroughly mas- 
tered the trade in all its details, and then es- 
tablished a business in that line on his own 
account in New York City, which was a suc- 
cess from the beginning, he later extend- 
ing his operations throughout the southern 
and western States, which also proved a 

) profitable enterprise. His goods were man- 
ufactured in the city of Newark, and he was 
among the first manufacturers of that city to 
gain for it its well-deserved reputation as a 
manufacturing center. About the year 1850 
he gradually withdrew from business of a 
mercantile and manufacturing nature and 
invested his capital in other directions, be- 
. coming actively interested in the Newark 
Gas Light Company, he having been a mem- 
ber of the board of directors for a number 
of years. He was also a stockholder and 
director in the New Jersey Fire Insurance 
y Company, the Mechanics' Fire Insurance 
Company and the St. Mark's Fire Insur- 
ance Company of New York. He was a 
man of great force of character, of unim- 
peachable integrity, and to a natural dignity 
of manner added a geniality that won him 
numerous friends. He was charitable and 
generous, with a ready sympathy for those 
in affliction or need, and exerted a powerful 
influence for good in his community. A 
keynote to his success in his numerous ac- 
tivities was his executive force and mastery 
of detail in whatever engaged his attention. 
Mr. Plum married Margaret Monteith 
Todd, born in Belvidere, New Jersey, died 
in Newark, New Jersey, January 6, 1883. 
She was a daughter of Michael and Martha 
(Ramsden) Todd, the former of whom em- 



igrated from Glasgow, Scotland, to America 
in the latter part of the eighteenth century. 
Children of Mr. and Mrs. Plum, all born in 
Newark : I. Charlotte, born 1835 ; became 
the wife of Theodore B. Coe. 2. Matthias, 
born November 24, 1839; a prominent bus- 
iness man of Newark, engaged in the sale of 
books and stationery, also in printing and 
book binding, and has an extensive paper 
warehouse; married Josephine A. Terhune; 
children : Anne Howard, became the wife 
of George W. Downs ; Matthias, married 
Mary Campbell Gaddis : Stephen Haines, 
married Madge Wilder ; William Terhune, 
married Bertha Krueger. 3. Stephen 
Haines, (q. v.). 



PLUM, Stephen Haines, Jr., 

Man of Affairs, Philanthropist. 

Stephen Haines Plum, Jr., son of Stephen 
Haines Plum (q. v. ), was born in Newark, 
New Jersey, November 12, 1842, and died 
there. May 30, 1906. He attended the pri- 
vate school conducted by Mr. Hedges, and 
this knowledge was supplemented by a 
course in the high schools of Newark, which 
thoroughly prepared him for an active bus- 
iness career. He obtained his first insight 
of business by becoming a clerk in a drug 
establishment, and his next employment was 
in the City Bank of Newark, and at the ex- 
piration of eighteen months' service there, 
he accepted a position in the National Bank 
of the Republic, New York City, where his 
ability and faithfulness was rewarded by 
promotion from time to time. His connec- 
tion with this institution continued for al- 
most a quarter of a century, and for about 
eighteen years of that period he served in 
the capacity of paying teller. He resigned 
his position in the bank in order to devote 
his entire time and attention to his individ- 
ual property interests, which came to him 
upon the death of his father in 1885, he 
having left an extensive estate. He spent 
eighteen months abroad visiting England, 
Scotland, Ireland, France, Italy, Germany, 



269 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Algeria and other foreign countries, thus 
adding considerably to his store of knowl- 
edge and also gaining for him a much-need- 
ed rest. 

Mr. Plum was a philanthropist in the 
highest sense of the word, contributing lib- 
erally of his means to various charities, al- 
though in such an unostentatious and quiet 
manner that few except those directly bene- 
fitted were aware of the donor, this being 
true charity and the essence of true refine- 
ment of character. One of his most noble 
acts of charity was the building of the 
Eighth Avenue Day Nursery in Newark, in 
honor of his mother, this institution being 
a great boon to mothers who are compelled 
to leave their children in order to make a 
living for them. In connection with the late 
Mr. Horace Ailing, he was an active factor 
in securing the subscriptions for the erection 
of the building for the Children's Aid and 
Prevention of Cruelty to Children Society in 
Newark, in which worthy undertaking he 
took a keen interest, contributing liberally 
toward its support and maintenance, and 
which he served in the capacity of presi- 
dent, filling that position at the time of his 
decease and for many years prior to that 
event. Mr. Plum joined the First Baptist 
Peddie Memorial Church, in 1858. at the age 
of sixteen years, and was thereafter an ac- 
tive and consistent member, serving for 
nineteen years as treasurer, for several 
years as president of its Board of Trustees, 
and an active worker in the missionary 
movement. He was also for many years a 
teacher in its Sunday school, using there his 
great influence and power over many young 
men. his daily life serving as an example 
for others to follow. In national and State 
affairs, Mr. Plum was in favor of the can- 
didates of the Republican party, but in local 
affairs he cast his vote for the man who in 
his opinion was best qualified for office, ir- 
respective of party affiliation. He was a 
man whom to know was to honor, one of the 
men whose careers were of signal useful- 
ness, using their great talents and wealth to 

270 



the best advantage, thus gaining what is far 
better than wealth or power, an honored and 
untarnished name. 

Mr. Plum married, October 25, 1865, 
Mary, daughter of David C. and Lydia 
(Dodd) Runyon, of Newark, New Jersey. 
Children : i. Margaret Monteith, became 
the wife of Henry G. Atha, treasurer of the 
Cast Steel Works of New Jersey ; children : 
Margaret Monteith, born July 17, 1898, and 
Sarah, bom March 8, 1901. 2. Martha J. 
3. Stephen Haines (3), bom January 18, 
1877, in Newark ; educated in Newark 
Academy and Princeton College, graduating 
from the latter in the class of 1901 ; engaged 
in the real estate business in Newark ; a Re- 
publican in politics, member of the Peddie 
Memorial Church, in which he serves as 
trustee, and interested in all the good work ■ 
in which his father took such a prominent \ 
part : married Blanche Devereux ; children : 
Stephen Haines (4), born October 30, 1906, 
and Lucretia Mary, born December 30, 
1907. 



HUSTON, Judge Henry. 

Prominent Itairyer and Jurist. 

The comment has often been truthfully 
made that deserved appreciation of really 
great men is too frequently withheld until 
death awakens society, or a State, to a sense 
of its loss. This is less true of the late 
Judge Henry Huston, of Newton, New Jer- 
sey, than of most distinguished personages. 
There was never a period in his notable 
career when his mental equipment was not 
recognized by friend and foe alike as of a 
superior order. None ever failed to credit 
him with high moral purpose, true nobility 
of character, sterling sense of justice, and 
firm adherence to the loftiest political, social 
and professional ideals. Nor did he disap- 
point any intelligent opinion of his excep- 
tional qualities of head and heart, and this 
universal estimate of his character became 
more pronounced after his sudden passing 
away. Sentiment assumed free and open 



J 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



expression. He was deliberately reweighed 
in all his attributes of character, in all his ac- 
complishments, in all his relations to public 
and civic affairs, and what had been the 
common verdict was only rendered the more 
emphatic. Honors, no matter how profuse, 
were all too insufficient for the distinguish- 
ed dead. Mourning, however sincere and 
general, was but a feeble expression of the 
deep seated sense of bereavement. Through 
critical, yet most kind analysis, through 
sympathetic eulogium, and through touching 
dirge, was assigned his deservedly exalted 
niche in the hall of fame, there to stand as 
an encouragement to noble endeavor and as 
an inspiration to ambitious youths. 

The Huston family in this country is of 
Scotch-Irish origin, and was founded here 
by John Huston, a linen weaver of the 
North of Ireland, who came to America 
about one hundred and fifty years ago and 
made his home near the Town of Newton, 
New Jersey. His son, Alexander Huston, 
was a farmer by occupation, prospered ex- 
ceedingly, and was a man of influence in the 
section, filling the office of assessor of the 
Township of Newton, for about thirty-five 
years. One of his sons, John Huston, was 
also a successful farmer in this township. 

James B. Huston, son of this second John 
Huston, was born in 1818, and died at La- 
fayette, Sussex county. New Jersey, March 
18, 1894. During almost all the active years 
of his life he held positions of trust. He 
served as a lay judge of the Sussex Court 
of Common Pleas for a period of ten years ; 
was for many years a member of the Board 
of Chosen Freeholders of the county : dur- 
ing a quarter of a century he was a member 
of the board of directors of the Sussex 
National Bank of Newton ; and was engag- 
ed in the milling and mercantile business at 
Lafayette approximately forty years. He 
married Martha Kays, a daughter of 
Thomas Kays, and a granddaughter of John 
Kays, a Revolutionary soldier, who married 
a daughter of Benjamin Hull, an early set- 
tler of Sussex county, who had thirteen chil- 

271 



dren, one hundred grandchildren, and whose 
descendants may be found in almost every 
State in the Union. Martha (Kays) Hus- 
ton was a descendant of Henry Bale, a 
German, who came to America about 1750, 
and in Sussex county built the first g^ist 
mill east of the Blue Ridge. Among the 
children of Mr. Huston were : John, now 
living in Portland, Maine ; Henry, the sub- 
ject of this sketch : and Mrs. Mary Clay, of 
Newark. 

Judge Henry Huston was born at La- 
fayette, Sussex county. New Jersey, No- 
vember 26, 1853, and died at his home on 
Elm street, Newton, April 17, 1915, after 
an illness of only a few hours' duration. His 
elementary education was acquired in his 
native town at the private school conducted 
by Professor E. A. Stiles, of the Mount 
Retirement Seminary, and he was prepared 
for entrance to college at the Blair Presby- 
terian Academy. Ther« he pursued his 
studies far enough to enable him to enter 
Princeton College in the sophomore class 
and he was graduated from this institution 
with honors in the class of 1874. For some 
time he had already decided to follow the 
legal profession, and he commenced his 
preparation toward this end in the office of 
his uncle. Thomas Kays, an eminent lawyer 
of Newton, was admitted to the bar of New 
Jersey as an attorney in 1877, and as a coun- 
selor in 1880. He at once commenced the 
active practice of his profession, and in 1884 
became associated with his uncle in a part- 
nership which lasted until i8gi, and which 
was conducted under the firm name of Kays, 
Huston & Kays. 

During the thirty-five years of his prac- 
tice in Sussex county, the services of Judge 
Huston were continuously in demand. It 
almost seemed a foregone conclusion that he 
would win cases, even under the greatest 
difficulties. Upon attaining his majority he 
had joined the ranks of the Republican 
party, and from the outset was looked upon 
as a leader. As a political speaker and writ- 
er, he took part in every campaign since 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



1876; his contributions to the newspapers 
always aroused deep interest, and on several 
occasions his was the leading spirit to im- 
portant and greatly needed reforms. As a 
public speaker, he was fluent and convinc- 
ing, his high literary attainments and pleas- 
ing address enabling him to sway his audi- 
ences at will. But it was not alone in the 
political field that his services as an orator 
were in demand. In the service of churches 
and organizations of varied scope and char- 
acter, his talents were as freely given, and 
were the subject grave or gay, it was sure to 
be attractively handled by Judge Huston. He 
was particularly impressive and charming as 
an impromptu speaker, his brilliant ideas 
and quaint, whimsical and telling turns of 
speech being inimitable. His professional 
services were always in demand, and at the 
time of his death he had been retained on 
eighteen of the forty-two cases on the dock- 
et for the April term of court. He was ap- 
pointed United States Circuit Court Com- 
missioner for the District of New Jersey in 
1879, and was admitted to practice in the 
United States Circuit and District Courts 
in 1881 ; in 1884 he was appointed a 
Special Master in Chancery by Chancellor 
Runyon. In April, 1896, Governor Griggs 
appointed him law judge for Sussex county 
to fill a vacancy, and in January, 1897, he 
was reappointed by the Governor, and con- 
firmed by the Senate for a full term of five 
years. In 1907 he was appointed Prosecu- 
tor of Sussex county, was reappointed sub- 
sequently, and retired in 1912. 

Judge Huston married, September 2, 
1878, Laura A. Snyder, daughter of Wil- 
liam and Mary (Kays) Snyder, of Lafay- 
ette. She survives her husband, as do also 
children : Henry W., of Newton, and Mrs. 
Nelson E. Frissell, of Trenton. The fun- 
eral services of Judge Huston were conduct- 
ed by the Rev. Milton E. Grant, pastor of 
the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he was 
assisted by the Rev. Clarence Rouse, of the 
Presbyterian Church. During the funeral 
services all places of business in the town 

272 



were closed in honor to his memory ; the 
Court adjourned at two o'clock, and the 
members of the Sussex County Bar attend- 
ed the services in a body, having passed res- 
olutions in honor of his memory at a meet- 
ing held on April 20, 1915. Pages could be 
filled were the words of praise spoken of 
Judge Huston to be reproduced here, but 
the limits of this article will not permit their 
reproduction. Suffice it to say that he 
brought to the discharge of the duties of his 
office not only ripe experience and a thor- 
ough knowledge of professional affairs, but 
a conscientious desire and intention that, so 
far as was possible, sound business princi- 
ples and methods should be applied to the 
administration of court affairs. He was not 
hampered by a desire for other or higher of- 
ficial position and so, with the directness and 
candor so characteristic of him, he dealt 
with the problems before him in a way that 
secured effectual results. 



PETTIT, Dr. Alonzo, 

Medical Practitioner, Htunanitarian. 

By the death of Dr. Alonzo Pettit, of 
Elizabeth, New Jersey, the community lost 
a distinguished physician, whose connection 
with the medical profession was one of 
prominence. Lured by the hope of result, 
he had carried his investigations beyond 
those of the average practitioner, and in the 
field of knowledge had gleaned many val- 
uable truths whose practical utility to the 
world he had demonstrated in a successful 
practice. 

Dr. Alonzo Pettit was born in Wilson, 
Niagara county. New York, January 11, 
1842. and died at his home in Elizabeth, 
New Jersey, in November, 1908. He was a 
son of Samuel and Maria (Armstrong) 
Pettit, the former a farmer and one of the 
pioneer settlers of Wilson, New York, 
where he was deacon in the Baptist church. 
The American progenitor of the Pettit fam- 
ily was William Brewster, of Mayflower 
fame. Dr. Pettit attended the Wilson dis- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



trict school, and after suitable preparation, 
matriculated at the University of Rochester, 
from which he was graduated in the class 
of 1863. He then took up the study of med- 
icine at the University of Buffalo, from 
which he was graduated in the class of 1867, 
the degree of Doctor of Medicine being con- 
ferred upon him. For a short time he filled 
the responsible position of house physician 
at the Buffalo General Hospital, and, in 
1867 established himself in the practice of 
his profession in Elizabeth, New Jersey. 
The excellent results he achieved in his 
practice made his rise in this a comparative- 
ly rapid one, and at the time of his death he 
was considered one of the leading physicians 
of the State. In association with several 
other physicians he founded the Elizabeth 
General Hospital, in which he was an at- 
tending surgeon for a period of twenty- 
seven years, and was chief of the medical 
staff from 1892 until 1905. He was pres- 
ident of the Union County Medical Soci- 
ety ; president of the Clinical Society, Eliz- 
abeth General Hospital ; city physician for 
Elizabeth ; Union county jail physician ; and 
physician to the Central Railroad of New 
Jersey. While he cast his vote for the can- 
didates of the Republican party, he never 
took an active part in political affairs, hold- 
ing the opinion that he was best serving his 
fellowmen by devoting himself to the duties 
of his professional life. He was a member 
of the Masonic fraternity, the Delta Kappa 
Epsilon fraternity, and the Elizabeth Town 
and Country Qub. He was a constituent 
member of the Central Baptist Church, and 
a deacon in that institution at the time of his 
death. 

Dr. Pettit married, in Elizabeth, August 
31, 1869, Ellen Maria Dimock. They had 
no children. No better estimate can be giv- 
en of the character of Dr. Pettit than by 
quoting from what his colleagues and organ- 
izations with which he was connected, said 
of him at the time of his death. Dr. Mc- 
Lean, who had known and associated with 
Dr. Pettit for many years, said, among other 

273 

II— 18 



things : "As a surgeon as well as a physi- 
cian, Dr. Pettit stood high in his profession. 
He was a man who made lasting friends of 
all with whom he came in contact. He was 
a quiet, unassuming, Christian gentleman, a 
learned and highly successful physician and 
surgeon, and a man who, if he could not 
say a good word regarding a fellow man, 
would say nothing at all." Dr. Victor Mrav- 
lag, who was mayor-elect at the time of the 
death of Dr. Pettit, said : "His ability as a 
physician could not be questioned. He was 
always kind and courteous and personally, 
in my opinion, was one of the sweetest char- 
acters that ever lived. He surely had no 
superiors. He was a man of principle, and 
lived up to it. In his death, not only the 
medical fraternity, but the city, has lost one 
of its best and mostly highly prized men." 
Meetings to take suitable action were held 
by all the institutions and organizations with 
which he had been connected, and resolu- 
tions passed. Following is an extract from 
the tribute paid to his memory at the special 
meeting of the Clinical Society of the Eliz- 
abeth General Hospital : "He truly was a 
man without the slightest selfishness — the 
very personification of altruism. His sweet- 
ness of character, his fortitude in bodily 
suffering, his patient bearing under the 
severe dispensation of Providence, which al- 
most deprived him of the companionship of 
his faithful wife — his purity of mind, his 
upright life, placed him upon a level rarely 
attained and never surpassed by men." In 
the resolutions adopted by the Dispensary 
Staff of the Elizabeth General Hospital we 
find : "It has been the will of the Almighty 
to take from us our beloved friend and as- 
sociate. Dr. Alonzo Pettit, a man of sterling 
integrity, a skilled physician and an honored 
colleague ; a man who spoke ill of no one ; 
who gave the best of his natural endow- 
ments and broad knowledge without stint to 
the service of his fellow men."' He was one 
of the charter members of the Union Coun- 
ty Medical Society, and this also regarded 
him as "A quiet, unobtrusive, Christian 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



gentleman and physician, who was held in 
the highest esteem by all his professional 
brethren. His scientific attainments were of 
a high order, and the patient, conscientious, 
unselfish service which he has rendered to 
the people of Elizabeth, endeared him to the 
hearts and homes of a wide circle of those 
who were so fortunate as to enjoy his pro- 
fessional service." 

The death of Mrs. Ellen (Dimock) Pettit, 
widow of the late Dr. Alonzo Pettit, depriv- 
ed the city of Elizabeth, New Jersey, of one 
of its most earnest and high minded work- 
ers. A woman who put thoughts of self 
absolutely in the background, and whose 
mind was constantly filled with plans for the 
relief of suflfering humanity. 

Mrs. Pettit was born in Yarmouth, Nova 
Scotia, May 13, 1845, ^^'^ died in July, 1912. 
She was a daughter of the Rev. Anthony 
Vaughn and Susan Rathbone (Weston) 
Dimock, a descendant in the paternal line 
from the hereditary champions of England, 
and in the maternal from Peter Brown, the 
thirty-third signer of the Mayflower Com- 
pact. Rev. Anthony Vaughn Dimock was a 
Baptist minister, as had been a number of 
his direct ancestors, and was stationed in 
Nova Scotia, Massachusetts, Connecticut 
and New Jersey, and had at one time been 
a missionary in Prince Edward's Island. 
The education of Mrs. Pettit was a very 
comprehensive one, and was acquired in the 
district schools of Willington, Connecticut, 
and Templeton, Massachusetts, and in the 
Connecticut Literary Institute in Suffield, 
Connecticut. She became a writer of mis- 
sionary stories and Sunday school lessons, 
among them "Around the World," which 
was published in Boston. She was the able 
companion and co-worker of her talented 
husband, and labored earnestly with him in 
the establishment of the Elizabeth General 
Hospital. She was the honorary president 
for life of the Ladies' Aid Society connected 
with this institution, and as a mark of ap- 
preciation of her noble character and un- 
varying interest and aid, the Training 



School for Nurses was named in her honor. 
Mrs. Pettit married, at Elizabeth, August 
31, 1869, Dr. Alonzo Pettit, whose memoir 
also appears in this work. She was a con- 
stituent member of the Central Baptist 
Church, and it is largely owing to her efforts 
that the institution was called into being. 
After the dissolution of the Broad Street 
Church, in 1877, Mrs. Pettit, with charac- 
teristic tenacity of purpose, continued her 
primary class, thus holding many of the 
workers together. For many years she was 
the presiding genius of its missionary enter- 
prise, assistant superintendent of its Sunday 
School and superintendent of its primary 
department, thus almost literally fulfilling 
the meaning of the old-time expression "I 
belong to the Church." 

That her activities were numerous and di- 
versified, the following record will show : 
Assistant superintendent of the Central 
Baptist Sunday school ; superintendent of 
the primary department of the Central Bap- 
tist Sunday school ; member of the executive 
department of the International Sunday 
School Association : member of the primary 
department and officer of the International 
Sunday School Association ; director in the 
State Summer School of Primary Methods, 
at Asbury Park ; president of the State Pri- 
mary Council of New Jersey ; member of 
the executive committee of the Union Coun- 
ty Sunday School Association ; founder of 
the Primary Teachers' Union of Elizabeth, 
New Jersey ; chairman of the International 
Conference of Women's Foreign Mission- 
ary Boards of United States and Canada ; 
State president of Women's Baptist Foreign 
Missionary Society of New Jersey ; mem- 
ber of the board of directors of the General 
Society of the Women's Baptist Foreign 
Missionary Society ; originator of the Sum- 
mer School of Missionary Methods at 
Northfield ; founder of Foreign Missionary 
Cradle Roll ; president of Ladies' Aid So- 
ciety of Elizabeth General Hospital ; found- 
er of the Pettit Home for Nurses ; founder 
of the Training School for Nurses of the 



274 



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CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Elizabeth General Hospital ; one of the 
founders of the Graded System of Sunday 
School Lessons now in use (Interdenomina- 
tional) ; president of the Central Association 
of New Jersey Baptist Women's Foreign 
Missionary Society ; organizer of the Junior 
Department of the Women's Baptist 
Foreign Missionary Society ; one of the in- 
corporators of the Elizabeth Charity Or- 
ganization, and of the Society for the Pre- 
vention of Cruelty to Children ; a member 
of the Monday Qub of Elizabeth, and of the 
Elizabeth Town and Country Club. 

The home of Mrs. Pettit was a center of 
unbounded hospitality, a haven of rest and 
refreshment to returning missionaries, and 
its doors were ever open. Intense in her de- 
votion to her own family, her friendship 
was a priceless boon, and those who knew 
her best, most treasure her memory as a 
lasting, changeless possession. 



TOWNSEND, Zebulon E., 

Veteran Court Official. 

An unusual scene was enacted in the Pas- 
saic county court presided over by Judge 
Black when the business of the court was 
suspended to pay tributes of respect to one 
not a lawyer or jurist, but to the oldest of- 
ficer of the court. Zebulon E. Townsend 
was for forty-two years connected with the 
sheriff's office as deputy and court crier. At 
the time a former Governor of New Jersey 
and Attorney-General of the United States, 
John W. Griggs, spoke words of admiration 
and respect for his old friend, as did Judge 
Black and other eminent members of the 
bar. Known to his intimates as "Zeb," Mr. 
Townsend had a wide acquaintance among 
the best men in the State and left behind 
him a record of devotion to duty integrity 
and faithfulness never excelled. In recogni- 
tion of his long term of devoted service, on 
motion of John W. Griggs, seconded by 
former Prosecutor Eugene Emley, the court 
adjourned on the afternoon of Mr. Town- 

275 



send's funeral, many lawyers and court of- 
ficials attending the last solemn services. 

Zebulon E. Townsend was born in Pater- 
son, New Jersey, in March, 1837, the place 
of his birth being the house on Main street, 
standing on the present site of the Van Dyk 
furniture store. He died October 27, 
1912, aged seventy-five years. He was a 
son of Nathaniel Townsend, born in Sussex 
county. New Jersey, and a descendant of a 
family long numbered among the agricultur- 
ists of that county. 

Nathaniel Townsend was born in Ham- 
burg, Sussex county, in 1813, died in Pater- 
son, New Jersey, March 17, 1899. He was 
well educated, and when nineteen years of 
age came to Paterson, where until his 
death he was prominent in business and in 
public life. He established one of the early 
livery barns in Paterson and prospered ex- 
ceedingly, always holding a character for 
honorable dealing and uprightness. He was 
mayor of Paterson two terms, 1869-70, 
1875-77, ^^'^ sheriff of Passaic county, two 
terms, 1866-68, and 1872-74. He also serv- 
ed as city commissioner, and all his life was 
active in city politics, one of the representa- 
tive Democrats of his day. He retired from 
business several years prior to his death, but 
never surrendered his interest in public af- 
fairs. His livery barns were on Main street, 
near Market, and during his first term as 
sheriff prior to the erection of suitable court 
rooms, the sessions of the county court were 
held there. During his second term as sher- 
iff, the court house on Main street had been 
erected and court sessions removed there. 
Children of Nathaniel Townsend : Mrs. 
James G. Morgan ; Mrs. E. D. Gardner, of 
LTnion Hill ; Miss Jane Townsend, Mrs. 
Martha Dufford, of Paterson; and Zebulon 
E. Townsend. 

Zebulon E. Townsend passed his child- 
hood at his father's residence, 20 Hamilton 
street, Paterson, and there resided until his 
marriage in 1859, at the age of twenty-two 
years. He then installed his bride in their 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



own home at i6 Hamilton street, and there 
resided for nearly half a century, until death 
removed the wife, and four years later the 
husband followed. 

Mr. Townsend secured his education in 
the public schools, and was associated with 
his father in business until the latter's 
first election as sheriff, when he appointed 
Zebulon E. Townsend his assistant, or un- 
der sheriff. This office he retained under 
each succeeding sheriff, performing the du- 
ties of that office and those of court crier, 
having been first appointed to the latter of- 
fice by Judge (afterward Governor) Bedle. 
Although his father was a vigorous cam- 
paigner of the old school, the son took little 
active part in political affairs, although in 
1878 he was the Democratic nominee for 
sheriff. He failed of an election by a small 
plurality, and never again was a candidate. 
He continued as under sheriff and court 
crier for forty-two years, and it was his 
boast that for forty years he had never miss- 
ed an opening day of any term of the Passaic 
courts. Since that time he missed one day, 
but was again on duty at the opening of the 
September term, but a few weeks prior to 
his death. He was one of the kindliest 
hearted of men, modest and unassuming, 
highly respected, and esteemed by all who 
knew him, and "their name was legion." He 
did not appreciate that his end was so near, 
but planned some work he wanted to attend 
to only the day preceding his death. But 
the vital forces were all consumed, and 
quietly and peacefully the old veteran pass- 
ed to that land where courts are not called, 
and only the Great Judge sits in judgment. 

Mr. Townsend married, in 1859, Eliza- 
beth R., daughter of Rev. S. W. Decker, a 
minister of the Methodist Episcopal church, 
belonging to the Newark Conference. Mrs. 
Townsend died in 1908, her married life 
covering a period but little short of half 
a century. Annie, the only child of Zebulon 
and Elizabeth R. (Decker) Townsend, mar- 
ried Thomas Drew, and resides in Paterson. 



Children : Emmett Townsend, Thomas 
Kendall, Elizabeth Townsend. 



WERTS, George T., 

Distinguished Jurist, Governor. 

Distinguished lawyer, jurist and public 
official, the career of George T. Werts, best 
known to Jerseymen as an honored gover- 
nor, was a notable one from whatever point 
viewed. His standing as a lawyer was best 
attested by his appointment to the Supreme 
Bench of New Jersey ; his popularity by the 
fact that he was never defeated in a politi- 
cal contest ; his value as a public official by 
the fact that two of his bills, the Werts bal- 
lot reform bill and the Werts liquor bill, in- 
troduced by him as State Senator, became 
laws that are yet subjects of discussion. His 
term as governor was marked by strict at- 
tention to duty and a sincere desire to give 
the people who elected him, wise, just and 
impartial legislation. His business career 
was equally notable, his connection with en- 
terprises of magnitude continuous until his 
retirement. 

George T. Werts was born at Hacketts- 
town, New Jersey, March 24. 1846, died at 
his residence in Jersey City, January 17, 
1910, son of Peter Werts ; his mother was a 
Vanatta. His father, a builder, moved to 
Bordentown, New Jersey, in 1849, and there 
the lad attended private and public schools, 
finishing at the high school, then entering 
the Model School at Trenton, and continu- 
ing a student there until he was seventeen 
years of age. He then began the study of 
law with his maternal uncle, Jacob Vanatta, 
at Morristown, New Jersey, a town destined 
to be the place of his activities for many 
years. He was admitted to the Morris coun- 
ty bar at the November term, 1867, and at ■ 
once began practice in Morristown. He was 
successful in practice and very popular with 
his townsmen, was engaged on one side or 
the other of all important cases that came 
before the county court, and was chosen for 



3tj6 




'--^/^^^:7^:^^^>-z^ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



many important city and county offices. His 
legal career continued successfully, inter- 
rupted only by his office holding, until Feb- 
ruary, 1892, when he was appointed by Gov- 
ernor Abbett and unanimously confirmed by 
the Senate, a justice of the Supreme Court 
of New Jersey. This office he accepted, re- 
signing as State Senator from Morris coun- 
ty and as mayor of Morristown in order to 
do so. His term as Justice of the Supreme 
Court was a short one, although the duties 
were entirely congenial and in full accord 
with his private wishes, but the demands of 
his party that he become its gubernatorial 
candidate, were reluctantly acceded to, and 
he served most acceptably as governor of 
New Jersey during the years 1893-94-95, 
resigning his seat on the bench after his 
election. On retiring from the governor's 
chair, he resumed the practice of law, resid- 
ing in Jersey City, and also engaging in im- 
portant business enterprises. His career as 
a lawyer and jurist was an honorable one, 
gaining him the entire respect of both bench 
and bar. During the campaign for govern- 
or he made no speeches or personal effort 
of any kind, sitting daily at the Hudson 
county court house in discharge of his judi- 
cial duty. 

His first public office was that of recorder 
of Morris county, an office he filled from 
May, 1883, until May, 1885. In 1886 he 
was elected mayor of Morristown, and was 
twice reelected, each time without opposi- 
tion, although originally nominated by the 
Democratic party, that having been his polit- 
ical affiliation from his first vote. He serv- 
ed as mayor from 1886 until 1892, and dur- 
ing that period also sat in both houses of the 
New Jersey legislature from Morris county, 
and was president of the Senate and was 
State Senator when appointed by Governor 
Leon Abbett to the Supreme Bench. He 
was exceedingly loth to give up his seat 
on the bench, and even after his nomina- 
tion by the Democratic State Convention 
for the high office of governor, did not for 
some time determine to sacrifice his person- 

277 



al preferences to the party will. Finally he 
yielded, wrote his letter of acceptance, then 
performed all his judicial duties as usual, 
leaving his election or rejection entirely to 
the men who insisted on his candidacy. His 
opponent was that strong Republican, John 
Kean Jr., but Judge Werts was successful 
in defeating Mr. Kean by a plurality of 
7265. Following his election. Judge Werts 
resigned his judgeship, and for the ensuing 
three years was New Jersey's capable, effi- 
cient and honored chief executive. At the 
close of his term in 1896 he returned to the 
practice of his profession and to his duties 
as president of the New York-New Jersey 
Bridge Company. He also served by ap- 
pointment as member of the Morris Canal 
Commission, and as a member of the Hud- 
son-Fulton Commission. 

Governor Werts married Emily N. Run- 
yon, who survived him. The family resi- 
dence where he died was 275 Union street, 
Jersey City. 



LEWIS, Griffith Walker. 

Manufacturer, Blan of Affairs. 

There are various tests that may be ap- 
plied to the life of a man in order to deter- 
mine the value of that life to his community. 
Success comes to men in many forms and 
often favors are showered upon a man who 
absorbs them without realizing his duty to 
his fellow men. The true value of the life 
of Griffith Walker Lewis far transcends a 
sum expressed in figures, for it covered 
many fields of labor and was one that, re- 
ceiving much, gave out yet more abundant- 
ly. There was no interest of the city of 
Burlington that was ever denied his helping 
hand, and when he stepped outside of local 
limits and became a State figure, it was but 
to enter a larger field of usefulness. The 
honors and emoluments of a successful busi- 
ness life were his in abundance; official hon- 
ors were richly bestowed upon him by the 
voters of Burlington county, no successful 
candidate ever appearing against him at the 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



polls in that county ; the fraternal societies 
gladly welcomed him to their midst, be- 
stowing their official recognition ; the institu- 
tions of philanthropy and charity supported 
by free will offerings looked upon him as a 
friend in whose fidelity they could ever con- 
fide ; and men in every walk of life gave him 
their full confidence and friendship. By 
these tests his life was one of proven value, 
and so long as men value honor, uprightness, 
patriotism, public spirit, charitable impulse, 
and loyalty, the name of Griffith Walker 
Lewis will be spoken with deepest rever- 
ence. 

His ancestors were of Pennsylvania resi- 
dence, his grandfather coming to New Jer- 
sey from Bucks county. Griffith Walker, 
son of Charles and Ann (Love) Lewis, was 
bom in New Jersey, located in Burlington, 
and there founded the shoe ^manufacturing 
business now known as G. W. Lewis and 
Son, which was largely brought to its pres- 
ent importance under the management of his 
son, Griffith Walker Lewis. 

Griffith Walker Lewis, last named, was 
born in Burlington, New Jersey, July i, 
1862, and died in the city of his birth, Au- 
gust 28, 1915, son of Griffith Walker and 
Annie (Kimball) Lewis. He was deprived 
of a mother's care and love when seven 
years of age, his life from that period until 
his sixteenth year being spent on a farm near 
Jacksonville, in Burlington county. His 
education, begun in the public schools, was 
completed with a two years' course at Bur- 
lington Military College, and at the age of 
eighteen years he entered business life as his 
father's assistant in the shoe manufacturing 
business. He later was admitted to a part- 
nership, and on the death of the elder Grif- 
fith Walker Lewis in February, 1899, suc- 
ceeded him as head of G. W. Lewis & Son, 
established in January, 1857. He continued 
the efficient head of the company and after 
its incorporation became president, an office 
he filled until his death. 

Mr. Lewis was a man of strong business 
ind executive ability, and as the years 



brought him experience, full recognition of 
his powers was accorded by men of high 
position in the local business world. He 
was one of the incorporators and continu- 
ously a director of the Burlington City Loan 
and Trust Company, director of the City of 
Burlington Building and Loan Asso- 
ciation, and president of the Burling- 
ton Savings Institution. He was elect- 
ed vice-president of the Mechanics Na- 
tional Bank in 1906, and later was chosen 
the executive head, holding that high posi- 
tion at the time of his death. He had other 
business connections of less importance, as 
there was no move inaugurated that tended 
to advance the material interests of Burling- 
ton but found in him a willing, liberal sup- 
porter. His standing as a banker was un- 
impeachable, for he combined the shrewd- 
ness of the investor with the sound judg- 
ment and conservative action of the finan- 
cier, in all his transactions building on the 
solid rock of probity and fair dealing. In 
public life Mr. Lewis won the high regard 
of men of all parties, and perhaps there 
never was a man of his prominence and 
length of service who had so few political 
enemies. And this was not because he was 
not strong in his political belief nor out- 
spoken in his advocacy of republican men 
and measures, but because he was eminent- 
ly fair, harbored no resentments or preju- 
dices, and gave to every man the rights he 
strenuously insisted upon for himself, full 
liberty of political thought and action. In 
1894 he first entered public official life as a 
member of the common council of Burling- 
ton, although he had taken active interest 
and part in political affairs ever since be- 
coming a voter, in 1883. He served in coun- 
cil six years ; was chairman of the finance 
committee two years, and president of coun- 
cil one year. In 1906 he was the candidate 
of the Republican party for Assembly, and 
at the November polls was returned victor 
over his Democratic opponent by a plural- 
ity of 2481 votes. He served his constitu- 
ency and State so efficiently that he was re- 



278 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



elected in 1907 and again in 1908, an ex- 
pression of confidence always gratifying to 
the public man. During his last year in the 
house he was Republican floor leader, and 
worthily led his followers. In 1909 he was 
called to higher honors by election to the 
State Senate, representing Burlington coun- 
ty, winning the election by a plurality of 
3279 votes over his Democratic opponent, 
who had also at a previous election contest- 
ed with him for the office of assemblyman. 
In 1 914 he was a candidate for Congress at 
the primaries, Isaac Bacharach, of Atlantic 
City, winning the nomination. At the time 
of his death Mr. Lewis was a member of 
the State Board of Railway Directors, an 
office to which he was appointed in 191 5 by 
Governor Fielder. During his entire term 
of public service he was ever the public spir- 
ited citizen rather than the partisan, al- 
though he stood squarely with his party up- 
on all issues of party faith, was constant 
in his loyalty to all its tenets, and permitted 
nothing to cloud his republicanism. He was 
most democratic in his nature and deemed 
every man his friend, whatever his station 
in life, unless that friendship was forfeited 
by unworthy deeds. He held the entire con- 
fidence of his constituency and whenever 
opportunity was granted this confidence 
found expression in a majority at the polls. 
Not less highly regarded was Mr. Lewis 
in social and fraternal life. He was "made 
a Mason" in Burlington Lodge, Free and 
Accepted Masons, and after passing several 
official chairs received the highest honor a 
subordinate lodge can confer, election to the 
worshipful master's chair. He held all de- 
grees in Capitular and Templar Masonry, 
belonging to the Chapter of Royal Arch 
Masons, and Helena Commandery, No. 3, 
Knights Templar. In the Scottish Rite he 
held all degrees up to and including the thir- 
ty-second degree. He was also a noble of 
Lulu Temple, Philadeljiliia, Ancient Arabic 
Order, Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. To 
his Masonic obligations he added those of 
other prominent fraternal orders, belonging 

279 



to Burlington Lodge, No. 22, Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows ; Hope Lodge, No. 
13, Knights of Pythias; and Mount Holly 
Lodge, No. 848, Benevolent and Protective 
Order of Elks, being a past exalted ruler of 
the last named organization. His fraternity 
was genuine, and in all these bodies he held 
the unbounded love and esteem of his breth- 
ren. The charity they taught found an echo 
in his own heart, and many were his deeds 
of kindness and most unostentatiously per- 
formed. His liberality in the way of tem- 
porary loans was proverbial, and for small 
sums not exceeding fifty dollars he never 
required written form of obligation, putting 
every man upon his honor. In addition to 
the above societies he belonged to the Loyal 
Order of Moose, the Junior Order of 
United American Mechanics, was an active 
member of one of Burlington's fire com- 
panies, ex-president of the Oneida Boat 
Club, honorary member of the Lakanoo 
Boat Club, director of the Masonic Hall As- 
sociation, director of the Burlington Free 
Library, and president of the Mount Holly 
Fair Association. The honorary pallbear- 
ers at his funeral were representative men 
from these organizations, and men with 
whom he had been associated in public life, 
including an ex-Governor of the State of 
New Jersey, Edward C. Stokes. 

Senator Lewis married, June 28, 1893, 
Mary R., daughter of William W. and 
Rhoda J. (Falkenburg) Fenton, of Jack- 
sonville, New Jersey, who survives him with 
two children : Howard Fenton Lewis and 
Helen Burr Lewis, all residing in Burling- 
ton. 

The predominating trait in the character 
of Mr. Lewis was his great-heartedness. 
To relieve suffering or need was his first 
impulse when confronted with either. His 
generosity was not an impulse, however, but 
a sacred duty that he never attempted to 
shirk. He gave with a free heart and with 
a spirit of thankfulness that he was able to 
give. Yet he was discriminating, and al- 
though often his confidence was betrayed 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



he never became embittered, but until his 
death continued his practice of giving to the 
deserving. He was a well balanced man of 
gifted mentality and successful in his busi- 
ness undertakings. He was a man of great 
energy and never shirked a business or of- 
ficial task. Integrity was the foundation 
stone of his character and upon that rock 
he built a life filled with manly deeds, one 
that brought him close to the lives and hearts 
of the people, whom he ever trusted and 
who ever trusted him. 



WHITNEY, Rev. George Henry, D. D., 

Clergyman, Educator, Litterateur. 

The story of the life of Dr. Whitney is 
the history of a mind, not one of stirring 
events or unique situations. He was by 
temperament, education, and choice, essen- 
tially an educator, but in literature and in 
the pulpit also won conspicuous success. He 
loved books, and could make them. His 
"Bible Geography," published many years 
ago, is valued by travelers through Bible 
lands as one of the expert guides, and his 
frequent contributions to the press, secular 
and religious, were characterized by clear- 
ness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness. But 
his great work was as an educator, and 
what Arnold was to Rugby and Mark Hop- 
kins to Williams College, so was George H. 
Whitney to Centenary Collegiate Institute. 
Elected its president in 1869, he made it a 
vital center of culture and character. Its 
phenomenal success commanded widespread 
attention, and alluring offers came to Dr. 
Whitney from some of the great universities 
of our land. But his heart was in the sem- 
inary, and he continued its head until 1895, 
when under the compulsion of physical dis- 
ability he retired into the solitude of Pain. 
When a little later, fire swept out of ex- 
istence the seminary buildings, it was feared 
the blow would end his life. On the 
contrary, it filled him with new zeal and in- 
spired him to recreate his beloved seminary. 



He lived to see, largely as the result of his 
ideas, a new Institute rise, commanding in 
its architectural features, and, when the in- 
stitution was again ready to receive students, 
he answered the call to act as temporary 
president. When succeeded in office, he 
continued President Meeker's ablest coun- 
sellor, and as president emeritus and trustee 
continued in active sympathy with the Sem- 
inary until the last. 

While Dr. Whitney's fame will rest chief- 
ly upon his work in the educational field, he 
was also a preacher of marked ability. He 
was a close student of theology, keeping 
in closest touch with modern science and 
philosophy. He preached truth, not in the 
abstract, but in the concrete, not as sys- 
tematized doctrine, but as a practical pre- 
cept. He preached as a teacher, the pulpit 
his desk, the congregation his class. But 
there came to him inspirational hours, when 
he cast off the scholastic cap and gown and 
allowed the fullness of his mind and heart 
to flow forth in freedom from his lips. Then 
his classical and biblical training appeared in 
its strength and inspired his speech. The 
beauty of his personal character grew with 
the years, losing its earlier puritan severity, 
and in its stead he substituted his own teach- 
ing, — that the love of Christ in one's own 
heart is a larger and safer rule of conduct 
than any formal law. In the gallery of 
Newark Conference necrology there hangs 
no portrait that will be more reverently re- 
membered than that of the Reverend 
George H. Whitney, D. D., educator, and 
minister of the Gospel. 

Dr. Whitney was of the seventh Ameri- 
can generation of the family founded by 
Henry Whitney, born in England and first 
of record in Southold. Long Island, Oc- 
tober 8, 1649, and was inhabitant of Hunt- 
ington, Long Island, August 17, 1658, when 
he bought of Wyandance, sachem of Pam- 
manake, "three whole necks of Meshapeake 
Land for the use of the whole town of 
Huntington." On October 11, 1669. he was 



280 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



one of thirty-three named in "A true and 
perfect List of all the Freemen appertain- 
ing vnto the plantation of Norwake." 

John, son of Henry Whitney, the found- 
er, settled with his father in Norwalk, fol- 
lowed his business of millwright and mill- 
er, and succeeded him in ownership of the 
mill and homestead. He married Elizabeth, 
daughter of Richard Smith. 

Richard, son of John and Elizabeth 
(Smith) Whitney, was also a millwright and 
miller, living in Norwalk for several years, 
then settled in that part of the Stratfield 
Society lying within the town of Fairfield. 
He married Hannah, daughter of John and 
Elizabeth (Beers) Darling, of Fairfield. 

John, son of Richard and Hannah (Dar- 
ling) Whitney, was a ship carpenter at 
Stony Creek, in Bran ford, Connecticut. He 
married Deborah Smith, born in New 
Haven, Connecticut. His sons John, Enos, 
and Jared, all served in the Revolutionary 
War. 

Jared, youngest son of John and Deborah 
(Smith) Whitney, was a ship carpenter and 
ship builder of Branford, Connecticut. He 
was captured during the Revolutionary War 
by a British armed vessel, and was con- 
fined in the Jersey prison ship in New York 
harbor. He married Sarah, daughter of 
David Rogers, a soldier of the Revolution. 

William, son of Jared and Sarah (Rog- 
ers) Whitney, was born at Branford, Con- 
necticut, June i6, 1800, and died in New- 
ark, New Jersey. He was a manufacturer 
of boots and shoes, and a merchant, resid- 
ing at various times in Connecticut, Wash- 
ington, and Georgetown, District of Colum- 
bia, Springfield, Ohio, and Newark, New 
Jersey. When a lad of twelve, in Novem- 
ber, 1812, he was captured, with the crew 
of the "Union" of Branford, by a British 
cruiser ofif Charleston, South Carolina, and 
five days later, after being separated from 
the British fleet in a gale, was recaptured 
by the American privateer "Mary Ann," of 
New York. He was a lifelong devoted 
Christian, and a prominent layman of the 

281 



Methodist Protestant Church, serving as lay 
delegate in five quadrennial sessions of the 
General Conference of that church. Wil- 
liam Whitney married (first) at Irvington, 
New Jersey, December 3, 18 18, Permelia 
Cogswell, bom at "North Farms," four 
miles west of Newark, New Jersey, May 13, 
1796, died in Washington, District of Co- 
lumbia, October 27, 1839, daughter of 
Aaron and Elizabeth (Baldwin) Cogswell. 
He married (second) August 6, 1842, 
Eveline Cogswell, sister of his first wife. 

Such was the ancestry of George Henry 
Whitney, third son and fourth child of Wil- 
liam Whitney and his first wife, Permelia 
Cogswell. He was born at Georgetown, 
District of Columbia, July 30, 1830, and 
died June 6, 1913. After graduation from 
Newark Academy, he taught in that school 
until his admission to Wesleyan University 
at Middletown, Connecticut, in 1858. He 
was graduated A. M. by Wesleyan Univer- 
sity after a full course, then for one year 
was principal of the Academy at Macedon 
Centre, New York. For two years, 1859- 
1861, he was principal of Oneida Seminary, 
Oneida, New York. He had in the mean- 
time completed theological courses, was duly 
ordained, and in April, 1861, became a 
member of the Newark Conference of the 
Methodist Episcopal Church. He was pas- 
tor of Somerville, New Jersey, from April 
to November. 1861 ; at Elizabeth to March, 
1863 ; at Plainfield to March, 1868; at Trin- 
ity, Jersey City, to March, 1870; and until 
March, 187 1. was under appointment by the 
Conference engaged in the work of erecting 
Centenary Collegiate Institute at Hacketts- 
town. New Jersey, one of the many noble 
memorials erected by the Methodist Episco- 
pal Church during the year closing its first 
century of existence. He was elected pres- 
ident of the Seminary in 1869, but after the 
erection of the buildings was for three 
years, 1871-1874, pastor of St. George 
Qiurch at Passaic, during which pastorate 
he built a new stone church there at a cost 
of $75,000. In April, 1874, he took up his 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



residence at Hackettstown, and for twenty- 
five years devoted himself solely to the up- 
building of that institution. During those 
twenty-five years he was the potent factor 
in determining the plans of the original 
buildings, in securing the funds for their 
erection, in the selection and organization 
of the faculty, and in creating the intellec- 
tual, social, and moral atmosphere of the 
school. Although supported by an able 
board of trustees and associated with a fac- 
ulty of superior culture, his will was the 
recognized force in its management, and his 
monument is the imposing buildings of the 
Seminary overlooking Hackettstown on 
Seminary Hill. He resigned the presidency 
in 1895, the victim of a hopeless ailment, 
but his heart was ever there, and when in a 
night the Seminary buildings were destroy- 
ed by fire, it acted as a new call to life, and 
as member of the building committee he did 
more than all to shape the idea which the 
architect crystallized in the present beauti- 
ful, commodious and well arranged semi- 
nary buildings. He then served as tempor- 
ary president until the election of his suc- 
cessor, then as president emeritus and as 
trustee continued his interest in the welfare 
of the seminary, an interest that only ended 
with his life. 

Dr. Whitney's literary fame depends 
upon his "Handbook of Bible Geography," 
written in the years 1868-1871, reprinted in 
London, and translated into German ; and 
upon his "Commentary on the Berean Sun- 
day School Lesson" (1872- 1874). In 1873 
he made a map of Egypt, Sinai, and Pales- 
tine, six feet square, depicting the then most 
recent researches in these lands. In 1873, 
Mount Union College, Ohio, conferred up- 
on him the degree D. D. He was one of the 
founders of Wesleyan Chapter, Alpha Del- 
ta Phi, while a student at the University, 
and at the time of his death was a member 
of the First Methodist Episcopal Church 
of Plainfield, New Jersey. 

He married (first) at Theresa, New 
York, Rev. J. M. Freeman officiating, Car- 



oline Amanda Shepard, bom in Stock- 
bridge, New York, May 17, 1834, died in 
Newton, New Jersey, December 19, 1865, 
daughter of Rev. Hiram and Amanda (But- 
terfield) Shepard; she is buried in Fair- 
mount Cemetery, Newark. He married 
(second) December 24, 1867, at Plainfield, 
New Jersey, Rev. John H. Vincent officiat- 
ing, Henrietta French, daughter of Dr. 
Phineas Mundy and Mary Emeline (Os- 
wald) French, Child of first marriage: 
Irving Shepard. Children of second mar- 
riage : May Vincent, Bertha Hurst, George 
Harold, Helen. 



VAN DUYNE, Harrison, 

Ideal Citizen and Public Official. 

Harrison Van Duyne was a scion of an 
old Dutch family, of whom the American 
progenitor was Martin Van Duyne, who 
settled in White Hall, near Boonton, Mor- 
ris county, New Jersey, prior to 1700. His 
son James succeeded to the homestead, and 
was in turn succeeded by his son Ralph, 
whose son, John R., succeeded to the prop- 
erty. He married Sarah Doremus, and 
they were the parents of Harrison Van 
Duyne, who in turn succeeded to the prop- 
erty. 

Harrison Van Duyne was born in Morris 
county, New Jersey, December 25, 1845, 
and died at his home. No. 350 Sumner ave- 
nue, Newark, New Jersey, May 3, 1914- 
Until the age of eleven years he resided in 
his native place, then his parents removed 
to Newark and he received his education in 
the public schools of that city, and was 
graduated from the high school in the class 
of 1862. After studying surveying and 
civil engineering, he spent a year in the oil 
regions of Pennsylvania, having purchased 
property in Woodside in 1873. Later he 
opened an office in Newark, New Jersey, 
where he continued the practice of his pro- 
fession until the time of his death, gaining 
a place in the front ranks of surveyors and 
civil engineers in his section of the state. 



282 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



For a number of years the public affairs 
of the city had been given a good share of 
his time, and he studied the important ques- 
tions of the day with close attention. Short- 
ly after attaining his majority he was in- 
duced by his friends to become a candi- 
date for school commissioner, and he was 
elected and re-elected to the Board of Edu- 
cation, serving four years, all told, in that 
body. But Mr. Van Duyne had already 
made a record for himself, which convinced 
his friends that he would appear to advan- 
tage in a higher sphere of usefulness. Ac- 
cordingly he was graduated, as it were, from 
the school board to the State Legislature in 
1879 as a member of the lower house. There 
he at once arrayed himself on the side of the 
people as against corporations, which atti- 
tude he consistently held to. As a debater 
he was the equal of any in the house, and 
his knowledge of parliamentary law made 
it impossible for any of his opponents to 
get the better of him on a technicality. He 
had no difficulty in securing a re-election 
and was chosen for a third term by his con- 
stituents. This exceptional honor was rec- 
ognized and concurred in by his colleagues, 
who further complimented him by making 
him speaker of the House. One of Mr. 
Van Duyne's acts in the New Jersey Leg- 
islature, which redounded greatly to the 
benefit of the people and for which he had 
been repeatedly complimented, was the 
change in the law under which the money 
raised by taxation for the support of the 
public schools was distributed. Previous to 
1881 this money was raised by a two mill 
tax on all the property of the different 
counties, and distributed from the common 
fund according to the number of children 
in each county. While this plan would have 
been fair if the valuations had been made 
relatively equal, but as was well known, 
many of the counties grossly undervalued 
their property, while the Essex valuation 
was if anything high, and the result was that 
Essex county was mulcted each year from 
$30,000 to $75,000, which went to the so- 



called poorer counties. Under Mr. Van 
Duyne's law, the State assesses according 
to the property valuations, as before, but 
ninety per cent, of the amount raised in 
any county must go back to that coun- 
ty. The remaining ten per cent, is left to the 
judgment of the State Board of Education 
for distribution, and, as a matter of fact, 
is mostly returned to the county from which 
it came. Mr. Van Duyne attempted to get 
this legislation enacted in 1880, but it was 
not until a year after, when he became 
speaker of the House and gained much ad- 
ditional influence with the members, that he 
was enabled to carry his point. 

In 1886 the tax liens of the city of New- 
ark were in a very much tangled condition. 
Assessments had been levied upon property 
which could not bear the expense. Tax- 
payers were virtually swamped with liens, 
and the conditions were critical, as well as 
chaotic. A commission was formed to re- 
vise and adjust several million dollars' worth 
of back taxes and assessments. It was a 
task of great responsibility, and one which 
could be entrusted to none but men of un- 
questioned integrity. Mr. Van Duyne was 
chosen by the court as president of the 
commission, and he performed his duties 
in a conscientious and praiseworthy man- 
ner. When in 1894 a law was passed giving 
the then mayor, Julius A. Lebkuecher, pow- 
er to appoint a new Board of Street and 
Water Commissioners, Mr. Van Duyne 
was one of his first selections, and he was 
made president of the board by the other 
members. His practical knowledge of city 
affairs, coupled with his technical training 
as a surveyor, made him a most valuable 
man in the board. The following spring, 
when the board was made an elective body, 
Mr. Van Duyne was chosen for two years 
more, and he was continued as president by 
the new board for another year. At the 
expiration of his term he was once more 
placed in nomination by his party, in 1897, 
for a full three-year term. Though his 
running mate was beaten by a Democrat, 



283 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



and nearly the entire Republican ticket 
swamped, Mr. Van Duyne carried the city 
by over one thousand plurality. 

Though this fact may seem surprising, 
the secret is an open one to anybody who has 
followed the doings of the Board of Works 
during the past few years. Invariably, Mr. 
Van Duyne was found on the right side of 
every question where the city's interests 
were at stake. During his incumbency of 
the office the board had considerable dealing 
with the street railroad companies, and the 
corporations were made to feel that the city 
had some rights in the streets. He waged 
what might be called incessant warfare upon 
the trolley people for better roadbeds, more 
cars to furnish seating accommodations for 
passengers, and a wider liberty in the use of 
transfer privileges. An ordinance to com- 
pel the street railroad companies to carry 
passengers for three cents when seats were 
not furnished was introduced by Mr. Van 
Duyne, and, though it failed to pass, it par- 
tially accomplished the object for which it 
was intended, by bringing the companies to 
a realization of the fact that more cars 
would have to be furnished. 

The law of 1895 providing the capital 
fund for street paving and also providing 
an easy form of payment by which property 
owners could pay in installments in five 
years, and under which hundreds of thous- 
ands of dollars worth of street paving work 
was done, was mainly the suggestion of Mr. 
Van Duyne. Many thousand dollars worth 
of sewers were also constructed. Mr. Van 
Duyne always made it a point to familiarize 
himself with every ordinance and study the 
needs and the plans of every improvement. 
In such cases the city secured the benefit of 
his professional experience and his peculiar 
fitness for such matters. The city's water 
supply was also carefully looked after by 
Mr. Van Duyne, who served as chairman 
of the Department of Water for nearly two 
years, and the city's right under the water 
contract was zealously gtiarded by him. 

Mr. \'an Duyne was one of the organi- 



zers of the American Society of Municipal 
Improvement, an association composed of 
city officials from all parts of the country 
who met in annual convention to exchange 
views and reap the benefits of each other's 
experiences on all questions pertaining to 
urban development, and at the convention 
of the society in Nashville. Tennessee, in 
1897, a testimonial was paid to Mr. Van 
Duyne's ability in the form of an election 
to the presidency of the society. He was 
for many years a member of the Newark 
Board of Trade, was a director of the Fire- 
men's Insurance Company, and president of 
the Eighth Ward Building and Loan Asso- 
ciation. He was a member of the Northern 
Republican Club, and a number of other 
political organizations. He was also a mem- 
ber of the Masonic fraternity, up to and 
including the Knight Templar degree, and 
a member of the Holland Society of New 
York. The directors of the Board of Trade 
of Newark immediately called a meeting 
when the news of the death of Mr. Van 
Duyne was received, and resolutions were 
adopted suitable to the occasion. Eighty 
members of the board were requested to 
attend the funeral services. Special men- 
tion was made of his part in the campaign 
for the purification of the Passaic river, his - 
interest in the reclamation of the meadows, f 
and his energetic fight against the "Moun- 
tain View Reservoir" project. 

Mr. Van Diiyne married, in 1871, Eliza- 
beth F., daughter of former Mayor Fred- 
erick W. Ricord, and of their children four 
sons and a daughter survive him : Dr. Sarah 
Elizabeth, Harrison R., Captain Frederick 
W., of the Fourth United States Infantry, 
J. Ralph and Philip R. 

Frederick William Ricord was born on 
the Island of Guadaloupe, where his parents 
were temporarily living, October 7, 1819, 
and died August 12, 1897. His paternal 
grandfather was a wealthy and prominent 
man in France who, after the fall of the 
Girondists in 1794, and during the horrors 
which succeeded the accession of Robe- 



284 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



spierre was proscribed. He made his escape 
from the guillotine, fled into Italy, and from 
thence with his family to the West Indies. 
In 1798 he came to the United States, set- 
tled in Baltimore, where his youngest son. 
Dr. Philip Ricord, later one of the most dis- 
tinguished physicians of Paris, was born. 

Jean Baptiste Ricord, another son, and 
father of Frederick William Ricord, in early 
manhood was sent North to complete his 
education and acquire a profession. In 18 10, 
the year he was graduated from the College 
of Physicians and Surgeons in New York 
City, he became a citizen of the United 
States, and settled at Belleville, New Jersey. 
There he married Elizabeth, a daughter of 
Rev. Peter Stryker, a cleryman of the Re- 
formed church of Belleville. Mrs. Ricord 
was a writer of pronounced ability, an ac- 
tive worker in all enterprises of a charitable 
nature, was one of the founders of the New- 
ark Orphan Asylum, and the first directress 
of the board of managers of this institution, 
an office she held until her death in 1865. 

Frederick William Ricord lived with his 
parents for a short time in New York City, 
then until his eighth year in Woodbridge, 
New Jersey, after which they removed to 
Western New York, where he was prepared 
for entrance to Geneva College, at which he 
became a student at the early age of four- 
teen years. He was matriculated at Rut- 
gers College, and left this institution, to 
study law in Geneva. His ambitious, pro- 
gressive nature found this road to fortune 
a slow one, however, and he turned his at- 
tention to that of pedagogy, for which he 
was eminently fitted by nature. For a per- 
iod of twelve years he taught a private 
school in Newark. In 1849 he was appoint- 
ed librarian of the Newark Library Associ- 
ation, and in that office rendered invaluable 
service. His sincere love for books enabled 
him to make a wise choice among treasures 
of this nature, and his richly stored mind 
broadened still more. While in this office, 
he was elected a member of the first Board 
of Education of Newark, and served in that 

285 



capacity from 1853 to 1869. He was sec- 
retary of the board for six years, and its 
president in 1867-68-69. During this period 
he was also appointed State Superintendent 
of Public Schools, and served a term of four 
years. In 1865 he was elected sheriff of Es- 
sex county, and was twice reelected. In 
1869 he was elected mayor of the city of 
Newark, reelected in 1871, and served alto- 
gether four years. Not long after the ex- 
piration of this last mentioned term of pub- 
lice service he was appointed lay judge of 
the Court of Common Pleas of Essex coun- 
ty. Later he served for many years as li- 
brarian of the New Jersey Historical So- 
ciety. While in office as mayor. Judge Ri- 
cord, against the long continued opposition 
of the common council, refused his consent 
to an ordinance giving the city wood pave- 
ments, and, although all means were tried 
to make him change his course, he carried 
the matter to the Supreme Court and the 
Court of Errors, was victorious, and thus 
saved the city great and needless expense. 

His literary work, however, was always 
considered by Judge Ricord the most impor- 
tant feature of his life. He wrote and pub- 
lished the following works : "An English 
Grammar," D. Appleton & Company ; "His- 
tory of Rome," A. S. Barnes & Company ; 
"Life of Madame de Longueville, from the 
French of Cousin," D. Appleton & Com- 
pany ; "The Henriade, from the French of 
Voltaire," H. W. Derby; "English Songs 
from Foreign Tongues," Charles Scribner's 
Sons. He also translated the "Comedies of 
Terence" from the Latin, and "More Eng- 
lish Songs from Foreign Tongues," which 
comprised translations from the Latin, Dan- 
ish, Flemish, German, French, Portugese 
and other langfuages. 



ROGERS, Major Peter F., 

Civil War Veteran, Public Official. 

Physically and morally, Major Rogers 
was literally "tried as by fire," his life his- 
tory including chapters of years of railroad 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



life as fireman, years of service as an of- 
ficer of New Jersey troops in the Civil War, 
and also years of service as a member of 
the police force of Newark. He emerged 
from these fierce trials of physical and 
moral courage unscathed, and with honor 
untarnished was advanced to the post he 
filled with further distinction for so many 
years, that of superintendent of the Home 
for Disabled Soldiers at Kearny, New Jer- 
sey. As a boy he learned the trade of silver 
plating. At the age of nineteen he became 
a locomotive fireman; and from April, 1861, 
until June, 1865, was numbered among the 
gallant Jerseymen who on the field of bat- 
tle won honor and fame for themselves 
and their State. Then as an officer of the 
peace and as chief of the police department 
of the city of Newark, he rendered the 
highest service, beginning in 1878 his long 
term as superintendent of the Soldiers' 
Home, that ended in 191 1. But his official 
connection with the Home did not end, his 
service as member of the board of man- 
agers continuing until his death in 1915- 

Although nearing his seventy-ninth year, 
until stricken with fatal illness two weeks 
prior to his death, he was working on re- 
ports to be made at the annual encampment 
of veterans to be held in Washington in 
September, 1915, when he expected to be 
present in his official capacity as aide-de- 
camp and assistant inspector-general. Among 
the soldiers of New Jersey who served in 
wars of the past and in the National Guard 
of New Jersey, few men were so well or 
so favorably known as Major Rogers. Him- 
self a gallant soldier, he had a personal 
sympathy with all who wore the blue, and 
as superintendent of the Home he endeared 
himself to the soldiers and their friends by 
his wise and businesslike administration. 
His rank of major was by brevet, his gal- 
lantry as captain when leading his men in 
frequent assaults at Petersburg and else- 
where winning him the honor. His career 
as lieutenant, captain, and chief of the 
Newark police force was highly creditable, 



and was terminated when the demands of 
politics and politicians prevailed. But what 
the city lost the State gained, and as su- 
perintendent of the Soldiers' Home for 
thirty-two years his service was invaluable. 

Major Rogers was of English and Scotch 
parentage. His father, Peter Jones Rogers, 
was born in London, England ; his mother, 
Elizabeth McEwen, in Paisley, Scotland. 
They were married in Glasgow, Scotland, 
and in 1843 came to the LTnited States, 
bringing their children, a son, Peter P., and 
two daughters. They spent two years in 
New York City, then moved to Newark, 
New Jersey, where the mother died in 1849. 
The father later went west with the colony 
that founded the town of Greeley, Colorado, 
and there died in 1887. 

Peter F. Rogers was born in Glasgow, 
Scotland, October 20, 1836, and died at his 
residence, No. 15 Seeley avenue, Arlington, 
New Jersey, May 8, 1915, aged seventy- 
eight years, six months, eighteen days. He 
was seven years of age when brought to 
New York by his parents, and nine years 
of age when they located in Newark, where 
he acquired his education in the public 
schools. His school life terminated at the 
age of fourteen, and his life as a wage earn- 
er then began. He worked at silver plating 
until he was nineteen years of age, as ap- 
prentice and journeyman, and then secured 
employment with the Morris and Essex 
Railroad Company. He continued in rail- 
road engagements until 1858, part of that 
time being spent with the pioneer railroads 
of the west. His western experiences, wild 
and exciting as they were, did not induce 
him to permanent residence, and leaving 
railroad employ he located in Morristown, 
New Jersey, then in Somerville, New Jer- 
sey, working at his trade of silver plating 
in both places. 

When "war's alarums" roused the north, 
Major Rogers entered heartily into the fray, 
and after recruiting a company of volunteers 
was chosen its captain. The company was 
recruited in April, 1861, sworn into service 



286 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



as Company G, Third Regiment New Jer- 
sey Volunteer Infantry, on May 29, 1861, 
and was sent to the front. He served in 
the First Brigade, Fourth Division, Army 
of Northeastern Virginia, from July, 1861 ; 
Kearny's Brigade, Franklin's Division, 
Army of the Potomac, from August, 1861 ; 
was at the battle of Bull Run, Virginia, 
July 21, 1861 ; in the action at Cloud's 
Mills, August 29 ; and at Springfield Station, 
October 2. Two months after the first bat- 
tle of Bull Run, Captain Rogers was taken 
seriously ill, was sent to Fairfax Hospital, 
and when sufficiently convalescent resigned 
on October 26, 1861, being honorably dis- 
charged on a surgeon's certificate, and re- 
turned home. He was physically incapable 
until the spring of 1862, and in August of 
that year he again enlisted as a private, then 
receiving a commission as second lieutenant 
of Company K, Twenty-sixth Regiment 
New Jersey Volunteer Infantry, September 
II, 1862, and first lieutenant November 19, 

1862. On February 12, 1863, he was com- 
missioned captain of Company K, his sev- 
eral promotions being awarded for "gallant 
and meritorious service on the field of bat- 
tle." Captain Rogers served under Generals 
Burnside and Hooker in their Rappahan- 
nock river campaigns, and with the Twenty- 
sixth Regiment was mustered out at the ex- 
piration of its term of service, June 27, 

1863. He again located in Newark, but 
could not long remain inactive while his 
country was in peril. He recruited a com- 
pany of volunteers, and with it entered the 
service as Company E, Thirty-ninth Regi- 
ment New Jersey Volunteer Infantry, re- 
ceiving a captain's commission September 
19, 1864. The Thirty-ninth saw hard ser- 
vice with the Army of the Potomac, and 
again "for gallant and meritorious service" 
at the head of troops before Petersburg, 
Captain Rogers was brevetted major of 
United States Volunteers, to date from 
April 2, 1865. He continued in command 
of Company E until the close of the war, 
and on June 17, 1865, was honorably dis- 



charged, returning to his home in Newark. 
The Twenty-sixth Regiment New Jersey 
Volunteer Infantry was organized and 
mustered in September 18, 1862, served in 
General Henry S. Brigg's provisional com- 
mand from September 30, 1862, and in the 
Second Brigade, Second Division, Sixth 
Army Corps, Army of the Potomac, from 
October 11, 1862. With this regiment 
Major Rogers was on duty in the defence 
of Washington, District of Columbia, Sep- 
tember 27 to 30, 1862; moved to Frederick, 
Maryland, September 30, thence to Hagers- 
town, and remained there until October 31 ; 
advanced to New Baltimore, Virginia, Octo- 
ber 31-November 9; marched to Stafiford 
Court House, November 16-17, and to 
White Oak Church, December 4-6. Was 
in action at the battle of Fredericksburg, 
December 12-15; on duty near Belle Plain 
Landing from December 20, 1862, to April 
28, 1863; on the "Mud March," January 
20-23, 1863: operations at Franklin's Cross- 
ing from April 29 to May 2, 1863 ; second 
battle of Fredericksburg, May 3-4, 1863; 
assault and capture of Marye's Heights and 
occupation of Fredericksburg, May 3 ; bat- 
tle of Salem Church, May 3-4; actions at 
Downman's Farm and near Bank's Ford 
May 4; operations at Franklin's Crossing or 
Deep Run Ravine, June 5-10; occupied a 
position in the front line of battle across the 
Bowling Green road, near the Bernard 
House, June 6-7. The regiment moved to 
Washington, District of Columbia, June 14- 
17, and to Newark, New Jersey, June 19, 
being mustered out June 27, 1863. 

The regiment with which Major Rogers 
saw his last service, the Thirty-ninth New 
Jersey Volunteer Infantry, was organized at 
Newark, New Jersey, September 23 to Oc- 
tober II, 1864, and served in the First Brig- 
ade, Second Division, Ninth Army Corps, 
Army of the Potomac, from October, 1864. 
Its service follows : Companies E, F, G, H, 
and K left the State on October 4 ; Company 
D, October 9; Companies B and I, October 
10 ; Companies A and C, with field and staff, 



287 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



October 14, 1864. The first five companies 
reported to Benham's Engineer Brigade, 
Army of the Potomac, October 9, and the 
other companies October 17. On fatigue 
duty in the defence of City Point, Virginia, 
until October 22 ; joined the Army of the 
Potomac at Poplar Grove Church, October 
23 ; siege operations before Petersburg, Oc- 
tober 23, 1864, to April 2, 1865 ; in position 
near Haw^k's House during the reconnois- 
sance in force toward Hatcher's Run, Oc- 
tober 27-28, 1864 ; with the brigade, covered 
the withdrawal of the forces by Duncan 
road, October 28; in the line of defences 
near the Pegram House until November 29. 
1864; posted in the rear of Fort Sedgwick, 
November 30, 1864, to February 15, 1865 ; 
reconnoissance to the Nottoway river, coop- 
erating with Warren's raid on the Weldon 
railroad, December 9-17, 1864; garrison of 
Fort Davis until April 2, 1865 ; under arms 
near Fort Sedgwick during the night of 
April 1-2; led the charge on Fort Mahone, 
April 2 ; capture of Fort Mahone and fall 
of Petersburg, April 2 ; pursuit of the ene- 
my, April 2-6; guard of trains, prisoners, 
and on picket duty at Burkeville Junction, 
April 6-9 : duty at Farmville until April 20 ; 
moved to Alexandria, April 20-28. Partici- 
pating in the Grand Review at Washington 
on May 23, the regiment was mustered out 
on June 17, 1865. 

After his return to private life. Major 
Rogers was in 1867 appointed to a lieuten- 
ancy on the Newark police force. In 1869 he 
was promoted captain, but in 1870 a polit- 
ical change gave the city to the opposition 
party, and Major Rogers retired from the 
police force, shortly afterward being ap- 
pointed street commissioner and holding 
that office until another political upheaval 
restored him to the police force as its chief. 
He served as chief of police during 1873 
and 1874, then, with many others, was for 
political reasons retired. 

The most important and longest continued 
public service rendered by Major Rogers be- 
gan October 31, 1878, with his appointment 

288 



as superintendent of the New Jersey Home 
for Disabled Soldiers, at Kearny. He en- 
deared himself to the many occupants of the 
Home who during his more than thirty-two 
years as superintendent were directly under 
his care, and when in 191 1 ill health de- 
manded that he retire, deep and genuine was 
the sorrow of all connected with the home. 
The years of 19 11 to his death in May, 
1915, were spent by Major Rogers practi- 
cally retired, although as a member of the 
board of managers of the Soldiers' Home 
he retained the liveliest interest in the men 
whom so long he had served as chief. He 
was one of the charter members of Lincoln 
Post, Grand Army of the Republic, and the 
last survivor of the band of veterans who 
signed the original charter of that post. 
Later he was one of the leading spirits in 
the organization of Marcus L. Ward Post, 
and fully expected to represent that post at 
Washington, District of Columbia, in Sep- 
tember, 1915, in celebration of the fiftieth 
anniversary of the disbanding of the Union 
army, and again to march proudly up Penn- 
sylvania avenue with the few survivors of 
his old command. He was preparing, when 
stricken with his fatal illness, papers and 
reports for the national encampment of the 
Grand Army of the Republic, and had al- 
ready received an appointment at aide-de- 
camp and assistant inspector-general of the 
encampment. Most worthy of preservation 
in a record of Major Rogers' life are the 
following resolutions : 

New Jersey Home for Disabled Soldiers : 

Whereas for the past thirty-three years Major 
Peter F. Rogers has been Superintendent of the 
New Jersey Home for Disabled Soldiers and by 
his kindness, probity and the careful and exact 
discharge of his duty and the paternal treat- 
ment of the Veterans under his care he has 
merited and earned the affection, good will and 
respect of each and every Veteran of said Home; 
therefore, be it 

Resolved, That the Veterans of the New Jer- 
sey Home for Disabled Soldiers aforesaid here- 
by express their profound sorrow at his re- 
linquishment of the office he has so long and 
ably filled, feeling that they have lost a kind, 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



conscientious, and sympathetic friend, and they 
sincerely pray that his future years may be long, 
prosperous, and happy. 

Resolved, That as a further appreciation of 
his services these resolutions be suitably engrossed 
and presented to Major Peter F. Rogers. 

Kearny, N. J., Feb. i6, igii. 

Major Rogers was a man universally loved 
and respected, and had a wide circle of 
friends and acquaintances. He was hon- 
ored for his sterling character, and attracted 
men by his kindly heart, genial disposition, 
and unfailing charity. He was broad-mind- 
ed and liberal in his views, holding the re- 
spect even of his opponents. His ability as 
an executive was severely tested in the vari- 
ous important positions he held, and, wheth- 
er in camp or on the field of battle, as police 
lieutenant, captain, or chief, or as superin- 
tendent or manager of the Kearny Home, 
he was never found wanting in any of the 
qualities that constitute the efficient, honor- 
able soldier, the official, or the man. His 
funeral was largely attended, officials, com- 
rades and friends vying in their last marks 
of respect for their friend, comrade, and as- 
sociate. 

He was laid to rest in the family 
burial plot at Hanover, Morris county, New 
Jersey, the Rev. John D. Ferguson, chaplain 
of the Soldiers' Home, conducting the fun- 
eral services. 

Major Rogers married, in i860, in New- 
ark, Nancy Osborn Ball, daughter of Alex- 
ander and Charlotte Ball, of Hanover, New 
Jersey. Qiildren, all living: Frank Morris, 
Virginia B., Charlotte E., and Aimee L., the 
last named the wife of George Smith, Jr., 
of Kearny. 



HINCHLIFFE, John, 

Fire Mayor of Paterson. 

The late John Hinchliffe was prominently 

connected with the business and public life 

of Paterson, New Jersey, was pre-eminently 

a man of affairs, and one who wielded a 

wide and beneficial influence. His business 

capacity placed him in the foremost rank 

289 
II— 19 



among the successful men of the day and 
he was, moreover, one of the world's work- 
ers whose labors are attended with results 
both for individual prosperity and for pub- 
lic good. Not so abnormally developed in 
any one direction as to be a genius, his was 
a well rounded character. His relations with 
his fellow men, the course he followed in 
his business life, the work that he did for 
the amelioration of hard conditions for the 
unfortunate and for the adoption of pro- 
gressive measures along lines of intellectual 
and moral advancement, constituted a prac- 
tical solution of the great sociological, econ- 
omic and labor problems which are charac- 
teristic of the age. 

Mayor John Hinchliffe was born in New 
York City, May 19, 1850, and died at St. 
Augustine, Florida, March 18, 191 5, after 
an illness of about one year's duration. At 
the age of one year he was taken to Pater- 
son, New Jersey, by his parents, and that 
city was his home from that time forth. A 
part of his education was acquired in the 
public schools of Paterson, and another 
part at King James Grammar School in 
Yorkshire, England, where his father had 
been born. In business. Mayor Hinchliffe 
had followed the avocation of a brewer of 
ale and beer. He was associated with his 
brothers, William and James, and with them 
conducted the Hinchliffe Brewing Company, 
which had been established by their father. 
Mayor Hinchliffe was also president of the 
Paterson Brewing and Malting Company, 
and of the Empire State Granite Com- 
pany. He was associated with a number of 
other business enterprises, among them be- 
ing his holding of extensive trolley interests 
on Staten Island, New York, and a big 
summer resort on the south shore of that 
island ; and zinc prospecting at Franklin 
Furnace, in Sussex county. He was a mem- 
ber of the Paterson Lodge, Benevolent and 
Protective Order of Elks; Knights of Col- 
umbus ; and Hamilton Club, of Paterson. 

Mr. Hinchliffe married (first) Julia 
Greenhalgh, who died about 1887. He mar- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ried (second) in 1890, Mary A. Master- 
son, of New York City, who survives him 
with a son, John D., who was graduated 
from Princeton University in the class of 
1913; an only daughter, Julia, died recently. 
But it is as a public official that the name 
of Mayor Hinchliffe will be best known to 
posterity. From the time of his first elec- 
tion to public office, when he was barely 
twenty-five years of age, he has been prom- 
inently identified with public afifairs. He 
was a member of the Board of Education 
from 1875 to 1877; a commissioner of taxes 
and assessments for two terms, from 1877 
to 1881, and was president of this board 
during his last term. He was elected to the 
State Senate in 1891 by a plurality of 112 
over Eugene Emley, Republican. The Sen- 
ator was mayor of the city of Paterson for 
three successive terms, from 1897 to De- 
cember 31, 1903, inclusive, six and one-half 
years altogether. He was mayor during 
the fire and floods of 1902 and 1903. He 
suspended the chief of police during the 
riots of 1902, and took command of the 
police force himself, placing the city under 
martial law and restoring peace and quiet. 
He refused outside aid during the fire, and 
his slogan, "Paterson can take care of her 
own," has been echoed and reechoed 
throughout the civilized world. He served 
as a member of the State Sewerage Com- 
mission from 1899 to 1902, and was treas- 
urer of that body until he resigned his mem- 
bership. He was again elected to the State 
Senate in 1906, by a plurality of 4,348 over 
Wood McKee, Republican, it being the larg- 
est ever given a Democratic candidate for 
any office in Passaic county. In that year 
he served on the committees on clergy, labor 
and industry, municipal corporations, sta- 
tionery and incidental expenses. Federal re- 
lations, and Sanatorium for Tuberculous 
Diseases. John Hinchliffe, as a member 
of the Legislature, was largely responsible 
for giving to Paterson its present form of 
appointive commission government. He ac- 
complished this under fierce opposition from 



the advocates of the old board of aldermen 
system. 

LTpon the ruins of flame-ridden Paterson 
one man mounted to a high eminence of 
fame. When the story of the terrible sweep 
of wind and fire that wrought devastation 
on all that was best and fairest in the Lyons 
of America was told, Mayor John Hinch- 
liffe was installed in the minds of the Amer- 
ican people as the man of the hour in Pat- 
erson. Out of that night and day of awful 
terror and rending suspense, this man, who 
had retired to his home Saturday night little 
more than an ordinary citizen of an ordinary 
city, emerged with many laurels upon his 
singed and grimy brow. 

The Paterson fire will live in the mem- 
ory of man as one of the great conflagra- 
tions of a century. Involving as it did a loss 
of millions of dollars, the utter destruction 
of the finest municipal and commercial 
homes of the city, and transforming with its 
fiery breath hundreds of dwellings into 
ashes and ruins, the fiend of flame did not 
require any human holocaust, though it be- 
gan its mad feast of destruction in the dead 
hour of midnight, a thing remarkable in it- 
self. One hundred thousand persons were 
appalled witnesses of that monstrous con- 
flagration. Most of them stood mute and 
helpless and watched the work of destruc- 
tion. 

It was by the very contrast of his atti- 
tude with the general helplessness that John 
Hinchliff'e won his fame. Dismayed, but 
undaunted, by the magnitude of the attack 
upon the life and being of the city, he began 
to fight for preservation with his first wak- 
ing instinct, and although wounded, bleed- 
ing and sore, this indefatigable man fought 
on, never pausing even to refreshen his wan- 
ing vigor with food or stimulant; com- 
manding when commands were necessary, 
exhorting and pleading when prayers were 
most efficacious ; urging on the heroes who 
were aiding him in the fight, even when the 
smoke and dirt so begrimed his countenance 
as to make him a grewsome sight indeed. 



290 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



And it was only after the conflagration was 
over, and the tired firemen had quenched 
the last sullen lick of flame, that John 
Hinchliffe's thoughts turned upon himself, 
and he deigned to give consideration to the 
fact that he was fatigued to the extremity 
of human endurance, that his clothing was 
caked with mud and soaked with water, and 
that his flesh had been torn and bruised in 
the savage ordeal through which he had 
passed. A hundred tales are told of the 
prodigious feats performed by Mayor 
HinchlifFe during the progress of the fire. 
He not only aided the firemen in their ef- 
forts, but whenever the emergency demand- 
ed a directing influence he did not hesitate 
to assume command. His advice to the fire- 
men was at all times heeded, because vet- 
erans of many a "smoke-eating" experience 
say it was always good. It was by his ad- 
vice that outside help was asked when the 
full realization of the danger dawned upon 
the people. 

When the fire had been conquered the 
Mayor's thoughts were not of himself and 
his own comfort, but of the hundreds of his 
people who had lost home and property. He 
was the leading spirit in the taking of meas- 
ures for the relief of the distressed. 
Through his instrumentality churches were 
thrown open as asylums and the city armory 
was converted into a temporary hospital for 
the shelter and care of many who were 
homeless. It was not until every needy per- 
son was housed and food and clothing sup- 
plied to meet the immediate wants of the 
suflferers, that Mayor Hinchliffe thought of 
his own needs, and then only after remain- 
ing on duty for nearly twenty hours, did 
he consent to retire to his own home to 
snatch a few hours' rest to fortify him for 
the equally trying ordeal of the morrow. Be- 
fore he retired, however. Mayor Hinchliffe 
sounded the note proclaiming to the world 
the spirit of patriotism and independence 
which was to call forth words of praise. 
Oflfers of relief from neighboring cities 
came to Paterson ere the conflagration was 



done. The people were bereft and, in the 
language of their mayor himself, Paterson 
was transformed into a "city of poverty." 
But the thought of accepting the aid so kind- 
ly offered did not for one instant enter the 
mind of Mayor Hinchliflfe. "Paterson has 
suffered grievously," said this mayor, "she 
is very grateful to the many who have dis- 
played such magnificent sympathy, but Pat- 
erson can and will take care of itself." 

So not a dollar of money nor contribu- 
tions of any kind were accepted, save that 
which was contributed by the citizens and 
business men of the stricken city. The at- 
titude of the Mayor awakened all the spirit 
of pride in his people. They ratified his 
stoical rejection of the extended hand of 
charity and said with him "Paterson is 
grateful, but will take care of herself." It 
was this spirit of pride, independence and 
self-reliance in the very darkest hour of her 
history that attracted the attention of the 
nation to Paterson. It was a unique pic- 
ture and a display of fine spirit that has 
rarely been equalled, and it was due to the 
unyielding attitude of Mayor Hinchliffe that 
Paterson has maintained her position. That 
Mayor Hinchliffe undertook a most serious 
task when he turned away, in the name of 
Paterson, the thousands of dollars that were 
offered in contributions, none will deny. It 
was not believed that he could maintain this 
attitude, and predictions were made that he 
would recede and consent to accept outside 
aid. Even the people of Paterson appealed 
to the Mayor to consent to receive such con- 
tributions of money as were made unsolicit- 
ed. The request was made by a delegation 
sent to the Mayor from the Central Relief 
Committee. But even to the official plead- 
ers he turned an unwilling ear, and to their 
importunities said : "No, we will not accept 
a penny from abroad. Paterson can and 
will rehabilitate herself." All through the 
trying week, the most crucial period in 
Paterson's history. Mayor Hinchliffe proved 
himself to be a natural leader of his fellow 
men. He displayed fine judgment, ready 



291 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



wit and sound sense in coping with every DUNLOP, John, 
emergency that arose. He seemed to de- 
velop in this situation more than at any 
previous time in an extended public career, 
the faculty of performing good acts in a 
way that fitted him in his public capacity, 
yet attracted all men strongly to him. 

John Hinchlifife, like all men who have 
passed through many political battles, had 
gained enemies for himself, not personal 
foes, but those that come as a natural con- 
sequence of the strifes of politics. It is a 
part of the stock in trade of such men to 
belittle the influences for good exerted by 
the object of their enmity and hate. But 
in this emergency the testimony of Hinch- 
lifife's enemies to the magnificent manner 
in which he first fought to save his city 
from total effacement and later bravely in- 
augurated the work of upbuilding, has not 
been one whit less enthusiastic than that 
of his dearest friends. Those who knew 
John Hinchliffe from his childhood say 
that his achievements of the week of the 
fire were the inevitable consequences of 
the opportunity that came to him. He had 
always displayed a strenuous vigor and a 
most marked individuality. He had always 
been noted for his love for a fight. From 
the time when, as a rugged boy, the product 
of city life, he contended with his playmates 
over a game of marbles, up to the hour when 
he undertook his now famous defense of his 
city against the annihilating efforts of the 
elements, John HinchlifTe had been self- 
assertive, disputatious and vigorous in all 
that he undertook. As a boy he led in the 
wholesome sports that all boys love; as a 
young man he retained his love for violent 
exercise and excelled his fellows with the 
ball and bat. Later on, when he took to 
politics as naturally as a duck takes to 
water, he exemplified the spirit of his earlier 
days in the exciting conflicts that his po- 
litical affiliations engendered and he was 
never known to acknowledge that such an 
emergency as defeat could ever come to 
him. 



Hanafactnrer, Ftnander. 

The manufacturing interests of any city 
are among its most important assets, and 
the men who have been instrumental in in- 
troducing industries of this kind should be 
given due credit for them. The late John 
Dunlop, of Hackensack, New Jersey, 
brought with him from his native land of 
Scotland, those habits of thrift and industry, 
combined with sound, practical business 
methods, which are so conducive to the 
prosperity of a community. 

John Dunlop was the son of George and 
Isabella (Waddell) Dunlop, and was born 
in Lanarkshire, Scotland, July 15, 1828. His 
early years were spent at Partick, Scotland, 
where he received his education and, at the 
age of nineteen years, he came to America, 
and settled in Texas. Being of an adven- 
turous and ambitious nature, he was of the 
opinion that there were better opportunities 
for advancement in that comparatively un- 
settled state, than if he remained in the more 
crowded eastern section of the United 
States. At the time of the outbreak of the 
Civil War in 1861, Mr. Dunlop was engaged 
in business on the main Plaza in San An- 
tonio, Texas, and went over the borders 
into Mexico to escape being impressed as 
a Confederate soldier. He was obliged to 
leave his young wife and infant daughter 
and cross the Rio Grande at Eagle Pass. 
Later he was joined by his family at Pedras 
Negres, and they proceeded to Monterey 
and from thence to Matamoras. Mr. Pierce, 
the American consul at that city, made Mr. 
Dunlop the bearer of dispatches to Presi- 
dent Lincoln in Washington, District of 
Columbia. He had a personal interview with 
President Lincoln, who paid close attention 
to Mr. Dunlop's recital of the conditions 
in Texas, and, at a conference which was 
called, the question of sending an army 
down there was freely discussed. Mr. Dun- 
lop volunteered his services to accompany 
this army in case it was sent, and, while 



292 




-■_.s'V.7£ mSL-y^Dl-i.C 






CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



awaiting developments, settled in Paterson, 
New Jersey, and there purchased a large 
amount of property, a portion of which is 
the present site of the Paterson city sta- 
tion of the New York, Susquehanna & 
Western railroad. He did not return to 
Texas, as the troops were not sent there, 
and in 1864 he engaged in the silk busi- 
ness with William S. Malcolm. Both young 
men were novices in this line, the parents 
of Mr. Dunlop having been engaged in ship 
building in Scotland, and Mr. Malcolm hav- 
ing had experience only in the manufac- 
ture of cotton textiles. Mr. Dunlop furnish- 
ed two-thirds of the necessary capital, and 
Mr. Malcolm one-third, the firm being 
known as Dunlop & Malcolm, and their 
place of business, which was located at 
Straight and Morton streets, was known as 
the Union Silk Works. At the commence- 
ment of this enterprise they employed about 
eighty hands but this number has been 
rapidly and steadily increased until at the 
present time they have several hundreds of 
hands in the mills. Upon the death of Mr. 
Malcolm, Mr. Dunlop purchased his inter- 
est, and thereafter had sole control of this 
industry. In 1888 he started another fac- 
tory in Spring Valley. The Paterson mills 
were completely destroyed by fire in 1890 
and, while they were rebuilt, Mr. Dunlop 
did not again operate them, but rented them 
to others. He retired from the heavy re- 
sponsibilities of business life in 1891, and 
his sons, George, J. Donald, and Beveridge, 
carry on the Spring Valley plant, known 
now as that of John Dunlop's Sons. 

Mr. Dunlop married, May 28, i860, 
Jeannie, a daughter of Thomas and Ellen 
(Hastie) Beveridge, of Oneida county, 
New York. They had children : Jean, de- 
ceased; George, married Miss Bacon, of 
Victor, New York ; Agnes, married Fred- 
erick W. Cooke, of Paterson, New Jersey; 
J. Donald, married Effie Smith, of Spring 
Valley; Helen, married Rev. Albert Bacon, 
of Niagara Falls ; Janet, married Dr. A. S. 
Corwin, of Rye, New York ; Beveridge, 

293 



married Miss Anna Marvin ; Elsie, married 
J. H. Longmaid, of Montana; and Jessie. 
By the death of Mr. Dunlop, which oc- 
curred December 11, 1907, business as well 
as social circles were deeply affected. He 
had been a director in many banks and a 
number of other institutions, and the loss of 
his wise counsel was a heavy blow. His 
chief pastimes were curling and hunting, 
and he was a member of the Ivanhoe Curl- 
ing Club of Paterson, and of the St. An- 
drew's Club. His charities were numerous 
and so unostentatiously bestowed, that their 
full extent is only known by the happy re- 
cipients of his bounty. 



BROWNING, John Hull, 

Financier and BSanof actnrer. 

John Hull Browning was descended from 
Anglo-Saxon ancestors through a long line 
resident in New England, and typified those 
qualities of industrious application, sound 
judgment and energy which conquered a 
wilderness upon our New England coast, at 
the same time conquering savage foes, and 
established firmly a modern civilization. The 
oldest form of the name bears the German 
spelling Bruning, and it later came to be 
rendered in various ways. According to 
the poet, Robert Browning, the earliest 
form of the name was de Bruni, which was 
the Norman-French name of one of the an- 
cient German tribes which inhabited the 
shores of the Baltic Sea, in Northern Ger- 
many. In high German the form of the 
name is Brauning. The Brunings are sup- 
posed to have migrated from Germany to 
England, where the Anglo-Saxons changed 
the spelling to Browning, to suit their own 
tongue. The termination "ing" in the Ger- 
man language means a meadow or low pas- 
tureland, and hence the origin of the name 
as applied to inhabitants of the low mead- 
ows. 

Nathaniel Browning, son of Mrs. Eliz- 
abeth Browning, was born in London about 
1618, and died at Portsmouth, Rhode Is- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



land, when about fifty-two years old. Mrs. 
Browning and her husband appear to have 
been non-conformists, and the persecution 
that followed them was probably the cause 
which led Nathaniel Browning to embark 
for America soon after he came of age, in 
the year 1640. Landing at Boston, he pro- 
ceeded to Portsmouth, where he was made 
a freeman in 1654. This means that he was 
of good standing in the church, and that he 
was eligible to participate in the councils 
and government of the colony. He married, 
about 1650, Sarah, second daughter of Wil- 
liam and Mary Freeborn, who sailed from 
Ipswich, England, in 1634. 

Their son, William Browning, born about 
165 1, at Portsmouth, lived to be nearly 
eighty years of age, a farmer at North 
Kingston, Rhode Island. He was made 
freeman in 1684, and was twice married 
(first) in 1687 to Rebecca, daughter of Sam- 
uel and Hannah (Porter) Wilbur, grand- 
daughter of Samuel Wilbur and John Por- 
ter, both of whom were original settlers at 
Portsmouth. His second wife's name was 
Sarah. 

John Browning, youngest son of William 
and Rebecca (Wilbur) Browning, was born 
March 4, 1696, at South Kingston, Rhode 
Island, and died in 1777, at Exeter, same 
State, in his eighty-first year. He was made 
a freeman in 1744, and was a farmer, resid- 
ing near the coast in South Kingston, where 
he had large landed possessions. He mar- 
ried, April 21, 1721, Ann, daughter of Jer- 
emiah and Sarah (Smith) Hazard, grand- 
daughter of Thomas Hazard, the immigrant 
progenitor of a notable American family. 

Thomas Browning, the eldest son of the 
above marriage, born in 1722, in Kingston, 
died there in 1770. During his active life 
he was a farmer in Hopkinton, Rhode Is- 
land, and was made a freeman in 1742. Like 
his parents, he was a Quaker, served as jus- 
tice of the peace at Little Compton, and was 
captain of the local militia company. His 
first wife, Mary, was a daughter of William 
and Mary (Wilkinson) Browning, and they 



were the parents of William Thomas 
Browning, born May 11, 1765, in South 
Kingston. He was a farmer in Preston, 
Connecticut, where he built a farm house, 
standing half in Preston and half in North 
Stonington, which is still standing in good 
preservation. He married Catherine, daugh- 
ter of Robert and Catherine (Guinedeau) 
Morey, of Newport, Rhode Island. Their 
fifth son, John Hazard Browning, was bom 
July 28, 1 80 1, at the Browning homestead 
in Preston, where he was reared. He be- 
came a merchant in Milltown, Connecticut, 
and later in New London. In 1833 he mov- 
ed to New York City, and engaged in the 
dry goods business, at the corner of Fulton 
and Water streets, as senior member of the 
firm of Browning & Hull. This business 
was greatly extended, and in 1849 was clos- 
ed out, and in association with two others, 
Mr. Browning engaged in the general mer- 
chandise trade in California, his partners 
removing thither. Mr. Browning remained 
in New York, where he manufactured and 
purchased goods which were shipped to Cal- 
ifornia for sale. Three times the store was 
burned, without insurance, resulting in a 
total loss. In 1857, Mr. Browning with- 
drew from all activity, except as a special 
partner with his son, who conducted a cloth- 
ing store under the firm name of Han ford 
& Browning. This subsequently became 
Browning, King & Company, which now 
has stores in the principal cities of the 
LTnited States. Mr. Browning married, 
September 21, 1829, Eliza Smith Hull, of 
Stonington, daughter of Col. John W. and 
Elizabeth (Smith) Hull, and they were the 
parents of four sons and a daughter. 

The Hull family is also of ancient origin, 
and springs from Rev. Joseph Hull, who 
was born in Somersetshire, England, about 
1594, and was rector of Northleigh, Devon- 
shire, England, about fourteen years. With 
his wife, Agnes, he embarked for America 
in 1635, and shortly became pastor of the 
church at Weymouth, Massachusetts. He 
was prominent in local affairs, and presided 



294 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



over several churches in Massachusetts, and 
subsequently, for nine years, at York, 
Maine. After ten years in Europe he be- 
came pastor at Dover, New Hampshire, 
where he died. He was the father of Capt. 
Tristram Hull, born in England, in 1626, 
who joined the Society of Friends, and resid- 
ed at Yarmouth and Barnstable, Massachu- 
setts. His son, Joseph Hull, born at Barn- 
stable, 1652, was governor's assistant in 
Rhode Island four years, and suffered much 
persecution because of his affiliation with the 
Friends, in which society he became a minis- 
ter. His son, Tristram Hull, lived in Wes- 
terly, Rhode Island, and was the father of 
Stephen Hull, whose son, Latham Hull, died 
in North Stonington, Connecticut. His son, 
John W. Hull, resided in that town, and 
was a colonel of the local militia. He mar- 
ried Elizabeth Smith, of Waterford, Con- 
necticut, and they were the parents of Eliza 
Smith Hull, born May 26, 1812, died April 
21, 1875. She was married, September 21, 
1829, to John Hazard Browning, and be- 
came the mother of John Hull Browning, 
of further mention below. 

John Hull Browning, youngest child of 
John Hazard and Eliza Smith (Hull) 
Browning, was born December 25, 1841, in 
Orange, New Jersey, where the family has 
been for some time established. After pur- 
suing a course in the New York Academy, 
he embarked upon a business career in his 
twentieth year, entering the wholesale cloth- 
ing firm of William C. Browning & Com- 
pany, which business was very successful, 
and John Hull Browning ultimately be- 
came interested in various financial and 
business enterprises. Soon after 1883 he 
succeeded the late Charles G. Sisson as 
president of the Northern Railroad of New 
Jersey, which position he occupied twenty- 
two years. He was secretary and treasurer 
of the East & West railroad of Alabama, 
and for twenty years was president of the 
Richmond County Gas Company, in what 
is now Greater New York. For some time 
he was treasurer of the Cherokee Iron Com- 

295 



pany of Cedartown, Georgia, and he was a 
director in the Citizens' National Bank of 
Englewood, New Jersey. Mr. Browning 
made his home in New York City, but main- 
tained an attractive summer home at Ten- 
afly. New Jersey. He was deeply interested 
in organized charitable work, both in New 
York and New Jersey, and in association 
with his wife erected a fresh air children's 
home at Tenafly. While he was essentially 
a business man, a director in many profitable 
enterprises, Mr. Browning always had time 
for a reasonable amount of recreation, and 
devoted much thought and care to benevo- 
lent work in the interest of mankind in 
general. He died suddenly in the Erie 
ferryhouse at the foot of Chambers street, 
New York, October 26, 1914. He married, 
October 19, 1871, Eva B. Sisson, daughter 
of Charles Grandison and Mary Elizabeth 
(Garrabrant) Sisson. Mr. Sisson was a 
projector, contractor and railroad president, 
one of the most useful citizens of New Jer- 
sey during more than a quarter of a cen- 
tury's residence in that state. He was a 
grandson of William Sisson, one of five 
brothers, from Soissons, in Normandy, 
France, all of whom settled in Rhode Island, 
a majority of them participating in the 
American Revolution. One, Nathan Sisson, 
endured terrible hardships on board British 
prison ships in New York harbor. Major 
Gilbert Sisson, son of William, was a native 
of North Stonington, Connecticut, where 
he was a merchant, and married Desire 
Maine, a woman of unusual talent, the sev- 
enth daughter of a large family, of French 
descent. They were the parents of Charles 
G. Sisson. 

Mr. and Mrs. John Hull Browning were 
the parents of a son, John Hull Browning, 
born October 6, 1874. 



OBERLY, Rev. Dr. Henry Harrison, 

Clergyman, latteratenr. 

The influence of a beloved and revered 
pastor remains longer perhaps in any com- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



munity than that of any other type of man. 
One of the most beneficent of these, and one 
whose saintHness was known to all, whether 
or not they were of his parish, was the Rev. 
Dr. Henry Harrison Oberly, rector of Christ 
Episcopal Church, in Elizabeth, New Jer- 
sey. A man of the most unaffected and 
beautiful piety, his sway over the people 
of his time was that due to the involuntary 
homage of the human mind towards an ideal 
of holiness and benevolence. The memory 
of such a man lingers long among those 
who have even indirectly known him, and 
leaves a strong, if mute, appeal for nobler 
and purer living. 

Rev. Dr. Oberly was born in Easton, 
Pennsylvania, June 19, 1841, a son of Ben- 
jamin and Anne Elizabeth (Yard) Oberly, 
and a descendant of a Swiss family which 
has been resident there for almost two cen- 
turies. After passing through the grammar 
and high schools of his native town, he at- 
tended in succession Racine College, Ra- 
cine, Wisconsin ; Trinity College, at Hart- 
ford, Connecticut ; and the Berkeley Divin- 
ity School, at Middletown, Connecticut. He 
was graduated from the two last named in- 
stitutions. Trinity College conferring upon 
him the degree of Doctor of Divinity in 
1899. He was ordained deacon while at 
Berkeley School, and ordained to the priest- 
hood of the Protestant Episcopal Church 
by Bishop Potter, while serving his diacon- 
ate at Trinity Church, New York. His first 
rectorship was the parish of Holy Cross, 
Warrensburg, New York, where he remain- 
ed three years. For another year he was 
rector at Cherry Valley, New York, then 
for five years rector of Trinity Church at 
West Troy, New York. He was appointed 
to the rectorship of Christ Church, Eliza- 
beth, New Jersey, June i, 1879, there hav- 
ing been but two rectors preceding him here 
— Rev. Stevens Parker, D. D., from 1863 
to 1879, and the first rector. Rev. E. A 
Hoffman, D. D., from 1853 to 1863. 

Dr. Oberly was an earnest worker in 



whatever he undertook. He was elected 
deputy from this diocese to the General 
Triennial Conventions of 1901, 1904 and 
1910, serving on several important commit- 
tees on both conventions. He was a mem- 
ber of the Clerical Union, and of the Church 
Congress, serving as a member of the exe- 
cutive committee. For many years he was 
the leading spirit in the Charity Organiza- 
tion Society in Elizabeth, having been one 
of the incorporators in 1903. He was a 
member of the executive board as well as 
chairman of the case committee, but for 
more than a year prior to his death, he had 
been obliged to abandon his activities in this 
direction. Many improvements were made 
in and around the church during his incum- 
bency, one of them being the erection of the 
parish hall in East Scott Place. He main- 
tained the surpliced choir for men and boys 
which had been organized by his predeces- 
sor ; and instituted the choir festival which 
was held once a year ; and also instituted the 
Guild of St. Paul. 

Dr. Oberly was a Republican in his polit- 
ical opinions ; was a member of Beta Beta 
Chapter of Psi Upsilon fraternity, and of 
the Psi Upsilon Club of New York City. 
His literary ability was of a very high or- 
der, his published works, "Testimony of the 
Prayer Book to the Continuity of the 
Church," a "Catechism," in four parts, and 
many articles for newspapers and maga- 
zines, sacred and secular. Four years prior 
to his death Dr. Oberly underwent a serious 
operation in a hospital in New York City. 
Only a short time previously, while return- 
ing with his wife from a trip to Italy and 
Switzerland, they were wrecked on the voy- 
age, losing all their baggage, as did most of 
the other passengers. Dr. Oberly married, 
in Trinity Church, New York, October 2, 
1871, Jane Averell, only daughter of Theo- 
dore T. S. and Jane Webb (Averell) Laid- 
ley, the former a colonel of ordnance, in the 
United States army. This article can find 
no better close than a few extracts from 



296 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



what was said of Dr. Oberly at the time of 
his death by eminent men who knew him 
personally. 

The Rev. Lytleton E. Hubard, rector of 
St. John's Church, said that while he had 
known Dr. Oberly only a few months, he 
had frequently seen him, and found him to 
be a most helpful man. He was sympathet- 
ic and understanding, and was of unusual 
ability and refinement. He understood the 
mission of the church, and was a guide and 
a teacher. His life and works have made 
a lasting impression, and the community has 
lost a friend. 

The Rev. J. Frederick Virgin, rector of 
Grace Church, declared that Dr. Oberly oc- 
cupied a position of prominence in the Epis- 
copal church. In the diocesan conventions 
his opinions always carried weight ; he had 
great influence in the church, and he was 
noted for his strong personality and church- 
manship. 

Rev. Winfield S. Baer, rector of Trinity 
Church, said in part: "I deeply regret the 
loss of my fellow worker, Dr. Oberly. His 
passing away is a loss to the diocese as well 
as to the parish and community. He was 
highly respected by his brethren in the clergy 
and was a man of influence in the councils 
of the diocese. His loss will be deeply felt. 
The members of his own parish can best 
testify to the work of his manhood, but no 
one can tell the good work he has done in 
the thirty-five years of faithful, devoted 
service as rector of Christ Church." 

Howard T. Scheckler, superintendent of 
the Rescue Mission, declared that Dr. Ober- 
ly would be more missed in the future than 
can be realized at the present time because 
of his charity and kindly feeling toward the 
people of the city. He took a great interest 
in the work of the Mission. 

From his brethren also comes the follow- 
ing extract from the minutes of the execu- 
tive committee of the Church Congress. 

New York, May 4, 1914. 
The E.xecutive Committee of the Church Con- 
gress desires to place on record some expres- 
sion of the great sense of loss which has be- 

297 



fallen us in the death of our beloved friend and 
colleague, the Reverend Henry Harrison Ober- 
ly, D. D. In the labors which he shared with 
us, he was uniformly active, faithful and con- 
scientious as in all the other points at which he 
touched the life of the Church, Always stand- 
ing unflinchingly for the truth as he saw it, he 
was nevertheless one of the broadest minded and 
most tolerant of men. As a critic he was keen 
and incisive, yet always sympathetic. A man of 
wide reading he was able to give a reason to 
them that asked for the faith that was in him, 
but the charm of his personality, his singular 
urbanity and the high standard of spirituality 
which he exemplified in his daily walk and con- 
versation endeared him to those whose opinions 
were most widely divergent, as well as to those 
who saw with him, eye to eye. His great life work 
was his rectorship of Christ Church. Elizabeth, 
where for five and thirty years he had built 
upon the foundations of Eugene Augustus Hoff- 
mann and Stevens Parker. The fruitfulness of 
his abundant labors is manifest in the strength 
and vigor of the parish, as well as in the im- 
press of his public spirit upon the civic life of 
the community which could always depend upon 
the help of the clear head and the warm heart of 
Doctor Oberly. His absence leaves a wide ga;> 
in an innermost Congress circle. We are at a 
loss to fill his place, for "He was a man take 
him all in all, I shall not look upon his like 
again." We shall sorely miss his counsel and his 
help, but we sorrow most of all, because we shall 
see his face no more. Singularly full of com- 
fort to us as to all who knew and loved him is 
the holy assurance. "Blessed are the dead who 
die in the Lord for they rest from their labors." 



YOUNG, Henry, Sr., 

Brilliant Lawyer, Public Official. 

A graduate of Princeton before he was 
eighteen yars of age, an attorney at the 
earliest possible lawful age of twenty-one, 
and in receipt of the degree A. M. from 
Princeton the same year. Assistant United 
States District Attorney at twenty-three, 
and counsellor at twenty-four, is the proud 
record left by Henry Young, of Newark. 
His subsequent legal career was one of equal 
honor while his courtesy, lofty principle, de- 
votion to duty, and open hearted kindliness 
won him the undying respect and afifection 
of all who knew him. 

Henry Young sprang from a Scotch an- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



cestor exiled from his native land for "con- 
science sake." His father was Charles E. 
Young, his grandfather John Young, a 
Newark leather manufacturer and eminent 
business man, conceded generally to have 
been the first leather manufacturer to estab- 
lish in Newark. From such progenitors, 
came Henry Young, Sr., and to their vir- 
tues and talents, he added his own qualities 
of mind, the polish of a university educa- 
tion and a charming personality. 

Robert Young, founder of the family in 
America, was a Scotchman, who settled in 
Newark in 1696, with his family and other 
of his countrymen. Two of his sons, David 
and John, settled in Hanover, Morris coun- 
ty, New Jersey. David Young was an or- 
dained minister of the Presbyterian church, 
married, and left issue. Among his grand- 
sons was David Young, the astronomer. 
John, the other son of Robert Young "the 
founder," died in Hanover in 1783, aged 
seventy-three years. Among his descend- 
ants was another John Young, founder of 
the Newark branch. 

John Young, of the fourth American gen- 
eration, was born in Hanover, Morris coun- 
ty, about 1776, and died in Newark, New 
Jersey, February 15, 1854. In 1829 he mov- 
ed from Hanover to Newark, where he is 
universally credited with having been the 
first manufacturer of leather. He was for 
years associated with George Dougherty in 
the manufacture of Morocco leather, then a 
new article of manufacture, and an industry 
that has made Newark famous as its chief 
seat of manufacture. This firm, if not the 
first in leather manufacturing, was first in 
the manufacture of Morocco. John Young 
while in Morris county, was a member of 
the First Presbyterian Church of Morris- 
town, and on coming to Newark, joined by 
letter, the Third Presbyterian Church of 
that city. He married Catherine Tuttle. 

Charles E. Young, son of John and Cath- 
erine (Tuttle) Young, was born in Whip- 
pany, Morris county, New Jersey, February 
19. 1816. --"id died in Newark, in 1898, one 



of the most active and enterprising men of 
his day. He began business life as a dry 
goods merchant, later associating with his 
father in leather manufacture. He devel- 
oped the business and made their Morocco 
department the most important in the city. 
He was a potent factor in the organization 
of many financial and commercial enter- 
prises, including the National State Bank 
and the Newark board of trade. He mar- 
ried Charlotte Wilbur, daughter of Rodney 
and Charlotte (Denman) Wilbur, of New 
ark, and maternal granddaughter of Mat- 
thias Denman. Dr. Charles Young, eldest 
son of Charles E. Young, was one of New- 
ark's most eminent physicians and surgeons 
for forty years prior to his retirement. 

Henry Young, second son of Charles E. 
and Charlotte (Wilbur) Young, was born 
October 24, 1844, and died at his Newark 
home, 1078 South Broad street, ^larch 30, 
1908. He early developed rare mental qual- 
ities, passing through preparatory schools 
and entering Princeton University at the 
age of fifteen years, as a member of the 
sophomore class. He completed a full 
course and was graduated with honor, class 
of "62" but his youth prevented his receiv- 
ing his degree until arriving at the age of 
twenty-one, three years later. After leav- 
ing Princeton he prepared for the profes- ■ 
sion of law under Frederick Theodore Ere- f 
linghuysen, of Newark, and at Harvard Law 
School. He was admitted to the New Jer- 
sey bar as an attorney in 1865 and as coun- 
sellor in 1868. In 1867 he was appointed 
Assistant United States District Attorney, 
and in 1873 was elected city counsel by the 
Newark common council. Such was the 
value placed upon his legal services by the 
city fathers that he served in that office by 
successive reappointments until 1884. This 
was a period of distrust, defalcation and 
partisan dispute in Newark, and fortunate 
indeed was the city to have had so efficient 
and capable a head of the law department. 
He bore himself with such absolute impar- 
tiality, was so just, honorable and courage- 



298 




-t^/^P" ^^^St 



/^-^ 





i 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ous, that he stood in pubHc estimation as 
the most capable counsel the city or State 
had ever possessed. From 1884 until 1903 
Mr. Young was engaged in private practice 
in Newark, but in 1903 he accepted at the 
hands of Mayor Doremus, a reappointment 
as city counsel. He served until 1904, then 
resigned to accept from Governor Murphy, 
the position of Prosecutor of Pleas for Es- 
sex county. Four years later his earthly 
career ended. 

Mr. Young was learned in the law, es- 
pecially of municipalities and the relation 
they bore to New Jersey law. He was 
sought for in consultation and his opinions 
were of great weight. His high position at 
the New Jersey bar was fairly won and un- 
disputed by his brethren of the profession, 
who acknowledged his intellectual attain- 
ment, legal learning and personal graces. He 
was a member of many legal bodies, includ- 
ing the bar association of his own State and 
the Lawyers' Club of Newark. His friends 
were many among all classes and at his fun- 
eral, the highest men in the State vied with 
the lowly to do him honor. Chief Justice 
Gummere, Vice Chancellor Emery, Gover- 
nor Murphy, Frederick Frelinghuysen, Jay 
Newton Van Ness, Oscar Keen, Cortlandt 
Parker, Jr., J. O. Pitney and George W. 
Hubbell were pall bearers, and in the 
thronged North Reformed Church sat many 
men distinguished in State and Nation. 

Mr. Young was one of the governors of 
the Essex Club, and a member of the North 
Reformed Church of Newark. In both or- 
ganizations he took a deep interest, and in 
both he was deeply beloved and highly es- 
teemed. His courtesy was unfailing, his 
devotion to every duty, supreme, his kindly 
friendliness never wanting, and his prin- 
ciple, lofty. He was a man of real worth 
to his city, a tower of strength as an advo- 
cate and a friend who never failed. 

Mr. Young married Margaret, daughter 
of James K. and Mary (Kellogg) Hitch- 
cock, of Utica, New York. Children: 
Henry (2), a prominent lawyer of Newark ; 

299 



Stuart Adams, also an honored member of 
the Essex county bar ; Roger, a business 
man of Newark. 



ROPES, David Nichols, 

Enterprising Citizen, Public Official. 

During a career of signal activity and use- 
fulness, the late David Nichols Ropes did 
much to further the industrial, civic and 
economic progress of the State of New Jer- 
sey, and his influence in promoting the var- 
ious affairs of the community honored by 
his residence was both potent and farreach- 
ing. He stood as a type of the steadfast, 
honest, honorable and upright business man 
and loyal and public spirited citizen, and his 
fine intellectual powers materially increased 
his usefulness and prestige as one of the 
noble workers of the world. The entire 
course of his life was dominated by the 
same high sense of duty that prompted him 
to tender his services in support of all right- 
eous causes, and he maintained an inviolable 
hold upon the respect and esteem of all who 
knew him. A man of firm convictions, 
broad minded, keen and distinct individual- 
ity, he made his life count for good in all 
its relations, and it is most appropriate that 
a tribute of some length be paid him in this 
memorial volume. He was a descendant of 
English and Huguenot stock which can be 
traced for a number of generations. Ac- 
cording to Burke's "Landed Gentry," the 
original spelling of the name was Roope, 
and we find the pedigree entered in the Col- 
lege of Arms, October 11, 1600, as follows: 
Arms : Argent, a lion, rampant, per fesse, 
gules and vert, between seven pheons, azure. 
Crest : A cock pheasant, combed and wat- 
tled gules. Motto : Nulla rosa sine spinnis. 

George Ropes, the immigrant ancestor of 
David Nichols Ropes, came to America 
prior to 1636, according to the records of the 
General Court, in the employ of Mr. Gar- 
ford. He was litigant in a lawsuit in 1637. 
After his term of indenture with Mr. Gar- 
ford had expired, he returned to England 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



in 1638 and was to have twenty acres of 
land upon his return to America. He was 
a carpenter by trade. His wife, Mary, was 
admitted to Salem church. May 15, 1642, 
prior to which year he had returned there, 
and died in June, 1670, in that town. His 
widow died in 1691. Children: George, 
Jonathan, Sarah, Mary, John, William, Abi- 
gail and Samuel. George was killed in 
King Philip's War. 

John Ropes, son of George and Mary 
Ropes, was baptized at Salem, Massachu- 
setts, July 4, 1647. He bought land at 
Newbury in 1702, and later other tracts, 
and his son, Nathan, was appointed ad- 
ministrator of his estate July 19, 1722. He 
married, March 25, 1669, Lydia Wells. 
Children, born at Salem : Benjamin, Lydia, 
Mary, John, Samuel, Elizabeth and Na- 
thaniel. 

Samuel Ropes, son of John and Lydia 
(Wells) Ropes, was born at Salem, Janu- 
ary 24, 1686-87, and died October 12, 1761. 
He married, January 12, 1709-10, Lydia 
Neal, daughter of Joseph and Judith 
(Croad) Neal. Children, born at Salem : 
Lydia, Lydia (second), Samuel, Joseph and 
Benjamin. 

Benjamin Ropes, son of Samuel and Ly- 
dia (Neal) Ropes, was born at Salem, 
March 22, 1721-22, and died April 20, 1790. 
He was a cooper, lived in Salem, and 
owned much land there. He was a mem- 
ber of Dr. Whittaker's church, afterward 
of Dr. Hopkin's church, of which he was 
deacon. He married, March 27, 1746, Ruth 
Hardy, who died in December, 1795 ; she 
was a daughter of Joseph and Sarah (Pick- 
ering) Hardy; great-granddaughter of 
Lieutenant John and Alice (Flint) (Bul- 
lock) Pickering; and great-great-grand- 
daughter of John Pickering, the immigrant 
ancestor from England. 

Timothy Ropes, son of Benjamin and 
Ruth (Hardy) Ropes, was born in Salem, 
April 9, 1773, and died February 17, 1848. 
He was a cooper and later a master ma- 
riner. Together with his brother. Hardy, 



he bought the homestead property from 
the other heirs for the sum of two thou- 
sand dollars, later purchasing Hardy's 
share from him for $1,333, ^"d thus be- 
came the sole proprietor. He married 
Sarah Delhonde, born September 15, 1775, 
a daughter of Thomas and Sarah (Holmes) 
Delhonde. Thomas Delhonde was a prom- 
inent physician of Boston in his day. His 
father, Dr. John Delhonde, was born in 
France, and being of the Protestant de- 
nomination, was obliged to flee that coun- 
try to avoid religious persecution after the 
revocation of the Edict of Nantes. He emi- 
grated to America and made his home in 
Boston. Mr. and Mrs. Ropes had several 
children. 

David Nichols Ropes, son of Timothy 
and Sarah (Delhonde) Ropes, was born 
in Salem, Massachusetts, December 5, 
1814, and died in Orange, New Jersey, July 
23, 1889. His education was mainly ac- 
quired in the town of his birth, where he 
attended the academy and the high school. 
He was but sixteen years of age when he 
entered upon what proved in the course of 
years to be an unusually active business ca- 
reer. His first venture was in the crockery 
business in Salem, where, in association 
with his brother, Timothy, he opened a 
small store. Close attention to their bus- 
iness enabled them to gain a large amount 
of experience, and two years later he with 
his brother George went to Portland, 
Maine, where in 1832, they became the first 
manufacturers of table cutlery in the 
United States, the actual work being done 
in Saccarappa, Maine. They were the in- 
ventors and patentees of American table 
knives. Until they were burned out some 
years later, they carried on this industry 
very successfully. After this event, Mr. 
Ropes went to Meriden, Connecticut, and 
there entered into a business association 
with Julius Pratt, the firm operating under 
the style of Pratt, Ropes, Webb & Com- 
pany, this being the forerunner of the Mer- 
iden Cutlery Company, whose products be- 



300 



i 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



came known throughout the civilized 
world. The interests of the company re- 
quiring a man of ability in New York City, 
Mr. Ropes assumed charge there in 1855. 
He became practically interested in the In- 
dia Rubber Comb Company about 1862, 
was subsequently elected to the vice-presi- 
dency, and was one of the largest stock- 
holders. After coming to New York for 
business reasons, Mr. Ropes selected 
Newark as a place of residence, but after 
a few months, removed to Orange, New 
Jersey, in October, 1855, and lived in that 
section until his lamented death. The fol- 
lowing spring he bought a house and lot at 
the corner of High and White streets, en- 
larged and improved the house, purchased 
a quantity of adjoining land, and made this 
dwelling his home until 1888. Some of the 
tracts he purchased were on Park avenue, 
Washington and Day streets. Valley Road, 
and other sections. He opened streets 
through the lands he purchased in all direc- 
tions, and extended High street to Park 
avenue. He made many improvements on 
his property, divided it into building lots, 
erected attractive houses, and assisted ma- 
terially in the development of the Oranges. 
The amount he spent in grading his prop- 
erty, alone amounted to more than $100,- 
000. In the matter of transportation facil- 
ities he was one of the leading spirits of 
the section, and instituted many new ideas. 
His property was crossed by the Watch- 
ung railroad, which ran through it from 
southwest to northeast, and it was distinct- 
ly through the personal efforts and the per- 
sonal financial support of Mr. Ropes that 
this road was constructed. The original 
charter had been obtained for a horse rail- 
road, but as changing conditions made a 
steam road a necessity, a supplement was 
added to the charter, enabling the word 
horse to be eliminated, and a steam road 
was commenced as a branch of the Mont- 
clair railroad. This last mentioned com- 
pany became bankrupt before the comple- 
tion of the new branch, and Mr. Ropes. 

301 



with his usual energy and business fore- 
sight, assumed the greater part of the re- 
sponsibility of finishing the Watchung 
branch. For a long time the conduct of 
this work and its later operation resulted 
only in pecuniary loss to Mr. Ropes, un- 
til it became a feeder for the Erie Road. 
In order to secure a right of way for this 
branch it was necessary for him to make 
many additional purchases of land, and 
these added to the property already in his 
possession made him an extensive land 
owner. Everything he did was done on a 
most generous scale; he graded the 
streets he cut through, curbed, and often 
flagged them, then deeded them to the city. 
He sold many of his lots at a profit, and 
could have sold many more in the same 
manner, had he not added too many re- 
strictions in his deeds. During i860 and 
1870, when the values were very high, he 
made many of these purchases, and found 
it necessary to carry mortgages on a large 
quantity of the property. When the panic 
of 1873 caused such widespread disaster, 
Mr. Ropes was obliged to part with much 
of his property under foreclosure proceed- 
ings, the greater part of his fortune being 
lost in this manner. With the little prop- 
erty he managed to retain he continued 
business for a time in New York, then 
opened a real estate office in Orange, and 
there disposed of the property he still 
owned to the best advantage. In 1877 the 
city of Orange, with a view of obtaining a 
supply of water for public use, caused six 
driven wells to be opened north of Park 
avenue and near the West Orange line, 
these being on the property of Mr. Ropes. 
The supply of water was apparently inex- 
haustible and analysis by Professor Leeds, 
of Stevens Institute of Technology, showed 
it to be equal to spring water, and free 
from all impurities. Mr. Ropes submitted 
the matter to the West Orange Township 
Committee, October 12, 1887, but this val- 
uable and excellent water supply was not 
accepted. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



In political belief Mr. Ropes was a strong 
Abolitionist, and while a resident of Port- 
land, Maine, his house was known as being 
one of the stations of the "underground 
railroad," used so frequently by the escap- 
ing slaves. In 1856 he was one of the origi- 
nators of the Republican party in Orange, 
and was prominent in the Lincoln campaign. 
He was a leading spirit in securing the in- 
corporation of the city of Orange, and was 
radically opposed to the separation of East 
and West Orange from the city proper. In 
1864 he was elected mayor of Orange, was 
re-elected the following year, and was a 
member of the common council as a repre- 
sentative from the Second Ward from 1866 
to 1872, inclusive. While serving in these 
offices he displayed a devotion to the inter- 
ests of the community which earned for him 
the commendation of political foe as well as 
friend. The cause of education always 
found in him a warm and strong supporter, 
and he was one of the three trustees ap- 
pointed under the "Central" School Dis- 
trict, in April, 1862, at which time an at- 
tempt was made to consolidate all the 
schools of the Ashland, Central and St. 
Mark's districts into one. His efforts to in- 
crease the efficiency of the schools in his 
jurisdiction finally resulted in the separa- 
tion of West Orange and its erection as a 
township. He was one of the founders of 
The New England Society, of Orange, and 
served as president, vice-president, and 
counsellor of this body. His nature was a 
strong one, but it was one rather of action 
than of words. At an early day he was a 
member of the New Church Society (Swed- 
enborgian), but at first while living at 
Orange he attended the Orange Valley Con- 
gregational Church. He was of a generous 
and kindly nature, and his charities were 
frequent and widespread, but bestowed, 
wherever this was possible, in a quiet and 
unostentatious manner. 

Mr. Ropes married, October 6, 1846, 
Lydia L. Bisbee. Mr. and Mrs. Ropes were 
the parents of children as follows: i. 

302 



Charles Franklin, born December 10, 1847, 
died in 1889. He married in California, 
and had two children : Eleanor and Ger- 
trude. 2. Clara, born 1850, who has also 
been president of the Board of Managers 
of the East Orange Homeopathic Dispen- 
sary, married, in 1874, Professor Charles 
Jenkins Prescott, born in 1832, died Sep- 
tember 20, 1902, a descendant of James 
Prescott, of Hampton Falls, New Hamp- 
shire, 1643, who came to this country from 
Lincolnshire, England. 3. John Bisbee, 
deceased. 4. Albert Barrett, deceased. 5. 
Edith, deceased. 6. Arthur Dudley. Mrs. 
Prescott has one son : Standish, born in 
Orange, April 25. 1875, is in the Engineer- 
ing Department of the New York Central 
Railroad Company ; he is unmarried and 
makes his home with his mother in Orange. 

Mrs. Lydia Laurelia (Bisbee) Ropes, 
wife of David Nichols Ropes, always a con- 
tributor to the various philanthropic in- 
stitutions of the Oranges and one of the 
founders of many of them, was born in 
Hartford, Connecticut, August 10, 1826, 
daughter of Rev. John Bisbee, of Plymp- 
ton, Massachusetts, who was a lineal de- 
scendant of Miles Standish, and also of 
John and Priscilla (Mullins) Alden, and of 
his wife, Mercy B. Bisbee, who after the 
death of Rev. John Bisbee became the wife 
of Captain Daniel Jackson, of Plymouth, 
and later she became one of the first woman 
physicians of Homeopathy in the United 
States. 

After the removal of Mr. and Mrs. Ropes 
to Orange, New Jersey, in 1855, she at 
once became one of the leading workers in 
all good movements among the women of ■ 
the Oranges. She was one of the fifteen 
charter members of the Woman's Club of 
Orange, organized in 1872, and it was large- 
ly through her personality and those as- 
sociated with her that the club grew into its 
present usefulness. She occupied the office 
of president in the club from 1876 to 1884, 
inclusive, and held the confidence and re- 
spect of the members during that time, as 





« 



^.««f% 




^^L^oLic^G^ , 'J^i^JjL/ 



I 
I 



I 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



she did during all the years of her life, 
and her administration was one of the most 
prosperous. She wrote a history of the 
club for the Chicago Exposition covering 
the twenty-one years since its organization. 
This was most fortunate as immediately 
after, all the club papers were destroyed by 
fire. She was interested in and supported 
both morally and financially, the work of the 
Orange Bureau of Associated Charities 
from its incorporation in 1884, and through 
her generosity five hundred dollars was set 
aside by the bureau as the nucleus for a 
permanent fund to teach Household Econ- 
omy to the families dealt with by the So- 
ciety, or for any purpose for which the or- 
ganization may wish to use it. She was 
one of the directors of the first Even- 
ing School established in Orange before 
the Young Men's Christian Association was 
organized and which was carried on two 
winters under the auspices of the Woman's 
Club. She was president of the Homeo- 
pathic Hospital, and when this was dis- 
banded the Homeopathic Dispensary was 
opened with the same Board of Governors. 
She was president of the dispensary for 
many years and remained on the board 
until her death. She was also an honorary 
member of the Board of Managers of the 
Essex County Homeopathic Hospital, in 
which she took a keen interest. By donating 
a piece of property to be used as a site or 
to be sold and the proceeds to be used for 
a fund for a public bath, she assisted ma- 
terially in establishing that institution, which 
has proven to be a source of benefit and 
recreation to many people. Mrs. Ropes was 
a charter member of the New Church 
(Swedenborgian) of Orange, joining in 
1866, and was a regular attendant at the 
services, taking an active interest in the 
work of the various societies connected 
therewith. 

Mrs. Ropes died March 21, 1910, at the 
home of her daughter, Mrs. Clara Prescott, 
with whom she had lived for twenty-three 
years, aged eighty-four years. Mrs. Ropes 



was a firm friend, generous and staunch, 
and a loving and tender wife and mother. 
Thus she lived, and thus she died, always 
actuated by a spirit of love and duty and 
commanding the respect and esteem of all 
with whom she came in contact during her 
active and useful career. Always progres- 
sive and ready to help any cause which 
looked forward to the uplift of humanity, 
she will be remembered in years to come, 
as she has been in the past, not alone be- 
cause of her activity in the philanthropies 
of the Oranges, but for her deep and friend- 
ly interest in everyone with whom she as- 
sociated. Almost her last words were : "I 
did not know I had so miny friends," show- 
ing thus she had forgotten or was uncon- 
scious how many she had befriended. 

The high esteem in which Mr. Ropes was 
universally held was partly evidenced by the 
well nigh innumerab'e letters of condolence, 
resolutions, editorials, etc., which appeared 
at the time of his death, but the limits of 
this memoir will permit us to reproduce but 
one example of them. It is a minute entered 
upon the records of the New England So- 
ciety, and reads as follows : 

"Few men have lived and died among us leav- 
ing a record of a purer and more useful life 
than our late associate and friend Mr. David N. 
Ropes. Born in New England of the best Puritan 
blood and tracing his lineage back to the Hugue- 
nots of France, he was just such a man as the 
union of all that was noble and good in these two 
great forces of the Reformation might be e.x- 
pected to produce. Elements of character derived 
from both, made him the well balanced man he 
was, uniting with the stern integrity of the one. 
the gentleness of the other in all those acts of 
life which endeared him so signally to all who 
came within the sphere of his influence and knew 
him but to honor and respect. Born in 1814. in 
the old City of Salem, Mass., just as the present 
century was entering upon its stupendous prog- 
ress in all avenues of man's activities and re- 
ceiving the education of the common school and 
academy, he early left the paternal roof to enter 
upon the rough ways of life and battle, as thou- 
sands of the brave boys of New England have 
done for fortune, reputation and usefulness to his 
fellow men. Carrying with him the early im- 
planted principles of honesty and integrity into 



303 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



an active life he could not be other than he was, 
the energetic man of business, the uncompromis- 
ing advocate of the right, the friend of the slave, 
the foe of injustice, the helper of the needy and 
the wise counsellor in matters of public policy 
and public welfare. 

"In the organization of this Society he was 
from the first a trusted counsellor, for several 
years Vice-President, and for two years our 
worthy and respected President. In all its activi- 
ties he bore an efficient part and from his intimate 
knowledge of the wants of our vicinity, he gave 
most important aid and counsel to those plans 
and efforts of this Society on behalf of the 
public welfare which have done so much to 
beautify our neighborhood and render it. as it is, 
the delightful home of an enlightened and pros- 
perous people. 

"His efforts in the practical realization and 
accomplishment of many of the improvements we 
now enjoy, may be best appreciated by our daily 
experiences and need not be here enumerated. 
While we recall with tenderest sympathy the 
financial embarrassment that in the great re- 
vulsion fell upon him without fault on his part 
and from circumstances beyond his control or 
human knowledge to forsee, we cannot but admire 
the fortitude, the manliness and Christian spirit 
with which he met them and labored and toiled, 
oftentimes against hope, to protect the rights and 
interests of those whose confidence he had shared 
in brighter days. It may be said truly of him, 
that in all the relations of public and private 
life, he acted well his part, and departing left 
behind him a reputation for uprightness, honesty 
and charity, unsullied by a blemish to mar his 
character or lessen our respect. 

" 'He was a man 
More apt through inborn gentleness to err 
In giving mercy's tide too free a course, 
Than with a thrifty and illiberal hand 
To circumscribe its channel.' " 



PIERSON, William, M. D., 

Physician, Snrgeon, Model Citizen. 

Among those who have attained distinct 
prestige in the practice of medicine and 
surgery in the State of New Jersey, and 
whose success came as the logical sequence 
of thorough technical information and nat- 
ural predilection, and that sympathy and 
tact which are an absolute essential in the 
profession, was Dr. William Pierson, late 
of Orange, New Jersey, whose family was 



represented in the medical profession for a 
number of successive generations. His 
family is one of the old ones of the State, 
and a few words concerning the earlier 
generations are not out of place here. 

Thomas Pierson Sr. came with the 
Branford settlers of Newark in 1666, and 
was one of the signers of the "Funda- 
mental Agreement." He had a number 
of parcels of land granted him, and was a 
weaver by trade. In his will, dated 1698, 
he names children : Samuel, Thomas, Han- 
nah, Abigail, Elizabeth and Mary ; son, 
Sam. Lyon. 

Samuel Pierson, eldest child of Thomas 
Sr. and Maria (Harrison) Pierson, was 
born in Branford, Connecticut, in 1663, and 
was three years of age when brought by 
his parents to Newark. Doubtless he 
removed with his father to Watsessing 
some years later. He was a carpenter by 
trade, and took up a tract of land between 
the First and Second Mountains, being one 
of the first settlers there. The first men- 
tion of his name is as one of the organizers 
of the Mountain Society, and he was a dea- 
con and one of the leaders in this organi- 
zation. He died March 19, 1730, and is 
buried in the "old graveyard." He married 
Mary Harrison, daughter of his uncle, Ser- 
geant Richard Harrison. Children : Joseph, a 
Samuel, James, Caleb, Jemima, Mary, Han- | 
nah. 

Samuel Pierson, son of Samuel and 
Mary (Harrison) Pierson, was born at the 
homestead between the First and Second 
Mountains, in 1698, and died in 1781. He 
resided on the farm all his life ; was elected 
deacon of the First Church in 1748, and 
served in this office continuously until his 
death. He married Mary Sergeant, and 
had children : Eunice, Rebecca, Samuel, 
John, Matthias, Mary, Joseph, Joanna and 
Zenas. 

Dr. Matthias Pierson, son of Samuel and 
Mary (Sergeant) Pierson, was born at the 
Pierson homestead, June 20, 1734, and died 
May 9, 1809. He was a student at Prince- 



304 



I 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ton College, and later studied medicine, but 
did not commence to practice this profes- 
sion until almost thirty years of age. He 
was the first and for many years the only 
physician in the mountain region, his pro- 
fessional work covering the section now 
known as the Oranges, Bloomfield and 
Caldwell, and extending to the border of 
Morris county. Early in the course of his 
practice he removed to a house near the cen- 
ter of the village, this being located on the 
present site of the Central Presbyterian 
Church on Main street. He was an active 
worker in the interests of education, and be- 
came one of the incorporators of the Orange 
Academy in 1783. During the War of the 
Revolution, while he was not engaged in 
actual military service, his work in behalf 
of the patriot cause was of the most effec- 
tive character. He and his family, as well 
as almost all of the citizens of Newark, had 
sought safety in the mountains during the 
Hessian raid, and his house was occupied 
by the British while they remained in New- 
ark. Dr. Pierson married Phebe Nutman, 
who died in 1826, a daughter of Isaac Nut- 
man. Children : Nancy, Sarah, Isaac, Mat- 
thias, William, Mary and Harriet. 

Dr. Isaac Pierson, son of Dr. Matthias 
and Phebe (Nutman) Pierson, was born in 
Orange, New Jersey, August 15, 1770. The 
Orange Academy furnished his preparatory 
education, and he was graduated from 
Princeton College in the class of 1789. Hav- 
ing completed the studies necessary to ob- 
tain his degree as a Doctor of Medicine, he 
became associated with his father in profes- 
sional work, and his practice extended over 
a widely extended section of the country. 
For many years he was a member of the 
Medical Society of New Jersey, and served 
as president of this body in 1827. He took 
a prominent part in the public affairs of the 
county, served for a time as sheriff of Es- 
sex county, and was a member of the Twen- 
tieth and Twenty-first sessions of the Con- 
gress of the United States. In 1821 he was 
one of the incorporators of the "Orange 

11—20 



Spring Company," which developed the fa- 
mous chalybeate springs in what is now 
Hutton Park. Dr. Pierson married Nancy 
Crane, daughter of Aaron Crane. Chil- 
dren : William, Albert, Phebe S., Fanny, 
George, Edward, Aaron, Isaac, Harriet and 
Sarah Ann. 

Dr. William Pierson Sr., son of Dr. 
Isaac and Nancy (Crane) Pierson, was born 
in Orange, December 4, 1796. One of his 
brothers. Rev. Albert Pierson, was a well 
known and successful teacher, and another. 
Rev. George Pierson, was the first pastor 
of the Second Presbyterian, or Brick 
Church, of Orange. Dr. Pierson received 
his preparatory education at the Orange 
Academy, and was graduated from the Col- 
lege of New Jersey at Princeton, in the 
class of 1816. Under the able preceptor- 
ship of his father he commenced the study 
of medicine, then continued these studies 
at the University of Pennsylvania, and at 
the College of Physicians and Surgeons in 
New York City. He received his degree 
as Doctor of Medicine and his license from 
the Medical Society of New Jersey in 1820, 
and was the recording secretary of this as- 
sociation for thirty years. His practice 
was an extended one. In public affairs he 
was an important factor. He served as a 
member of the New Jersey Legislature in 
1837-38 ; a director of the Board of Free- 
holders ; sheriff of Essex county, 1846-50; 
was active in the construction of the Mor- 
ris & Essex Railroad ; a corporator of the 
Newark Savings Institution, and for many 
years its vice-president ; when the town of 
Orange was incorporated, he was elected 
as its first mayor, served three successive 
years, and was then a member of the Com- 
mon Council for another three years ; he 
was the originator and one of the corpor- 
ators of the Rosedale Cemetery, of Orange, 
in 1840, and active as a trustee until almost 
the close of his life. Dr. Pierson married 
Margaret Hillyer, daughter of Rev. Asa 
Hillyer, D. D., for many years pastor of 
the First Presbyterian Church of Orange. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Children : Jane Riker, Anne, William, Ed- 
ward Dickson, and Margaret Riker. 

Dr. William Pierson Jr., son of Dr. Wil- 
liam Pierson Sr. and Margaret (Hill- 
yer) Pierson^ was born in Orange, New 
Jersey, November 20, 1830, and died June 
12, 1900. He inherited his love of the med- 
ical profession from his worthy ancestors, 
and early began a course of study especially 
adapted to the work he intended to follow. 
After a thorough preparatory course at the 
Newark Academy, the Flushing Institute, 
and under private tuition, he matriculated 
at the Medical Department of the University 
of New York, and was graduated from this 
institution in the class of 1852 with the de- 
gree of Doctor of Medicine. The honorary 
degree of Master of Arts was later confer- 
red upon him by Nassau Hall, Princeton, 
New Jersey. He had also pursued his 
studies under the preceptorship of his 
father, and was for a time house physician of 
the Charity Hospital, and later at the Brook- 
lyn City Hospital. For a time he was as- 
sociated with his father in his professional 
work, also with Dr. Crane, and then made a 
specialty of surgery, in which branch he 
earned great distinction. For many years 
he was the only operating obstetrician in the 
Oranges, and he was in great demand as a 
consulting physician. His professional 
labors engrossed his time and attention to 
such an extent that there was but little left 
to devote to the public aflfairs of the com- 
munity, but his deep interest in the cause 
of education could not be entirely sup- 
pressed even by his professional work. For 
many years he was a member of the Board 
of Education, was elected the first president 
of this body, and served capably in this 
office for twelve consecutive years. He was 
an impressive and influential advocate for 
the higher education of the masses, and 
greatly raised the standard of education in 
the city in which he resided. Both as a 
member and as an official he was connected 
with numerous and varied organizations, a 
condensed list of which is here given. As a 

306 



director and for some time vice-president 
of the Orange Bank, he assisted in its man- 
agement; member of the New Jersey State 
Medical Society, served as its secretary 
many years commencing from 1866, and 
was later its president; member of the 
Essex County District Medical Society, 
arid also served as president; one of the 
founders of the New Jersey Academy of 
Medicine ; member of the Orange Mountain 
Medical Society, which was organized at 
his home ; member of the old Medical Union 
of Newark ; the American Medical Associa- 
tion ; Princeton Club of Newark ; the 
Orange Princeton Society of Orange ; the 
State Sanitary Society. In the proceedings 
of these organizations may be found many 
contributions from his pen, some as formal 
papers read before the members, others as 
reports of interesting cases. When he rose 
in a meeting he was always listened to with 
respect and close attention ; his manner of 
speaking and writing was logical, concise 
and direct. The trend of his mind was 
toward the practical, and he was always 
ready to give a fair trial to new methods 
of operation, comparing them with care 
with the older methods in vogue. He was 
attending surgeon at the Orange Memorial 
Hospital; consulting surgeon of St. Mary's 
Hospital. Morristown ; consulting surgeon 
of St. Barnabas' Hospital, Newark ; attend- 
ing physician at Seton Hall College of 
South Orange and at the Orange Orphans' 
Home ; attending surgeon and medical 
director of St. Michael's Hospital, Newark. 
During the Civil War, Dr. Pierson was sur- 
geon of the board of enrollment of the 
Fourth Congressional District of New Jer- 
sey, and was volunteer surgeon on the Gov- 
ernor's staff. He was several times as- 
signed to duty on the battlefield, where he 
rendered important service as surgeon of 
the Sanitary Commission. He was justly 
proud of his ancestors on botli sides, many 
of them having achieved distinction in each 
generation. His great-grandfather, Lieu- 
tenant Abraham Riker, served in the Con- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



tinental army prior to the signing of the 
Declaration of Independence, and the origi- 
nal commission is still in existence in the 
home of the doctor, dated at Philadelphia, 
June 20, 1775, signed by John Hancock. 

Dr. Pierson married Isabel F. Adams, 
daughter of B. F. Adams, of Chicago, son 
of Benjamin Adams, born in 1763; son of 
Benjamin Adams, born in 1728; son of 
Thomas Adams, and grandson of Thomas 
Adams; son of William Adams, the an- 
cestor, born in England, 1594, came to 
America in 1628, and settled in Ipswich. 
Dr. and Mrs. Pierson had children: Mar- 
garet, Louise and Isabel. 

Following are a few extracts from a me- 
morial of Dr. William Pierson, read be- 
fore the New England Society of Orange, 
October 6, 1900, by Hon. Frederic Adams : 

"I need not enumerate the positions of trust 
that he occupied in business enterprises and 
financial institutions ; they were such as naturally 
fell to a man with a decided capacity for affairs. 
He understood the value of money, and he under- 
stood also that elusive and inscrutable thing, 
perilous as the sound of the Sirens, the value 
of land. Having in his composition nothing of 
the visionary or speculator, he easily escaped the 
rocks on which less wary men were shipwrecked 
and, investing with cautious boldness, in im- 
proved or immediately improved real estate, he 
early began to lay the foundation of what came 
to be a competent fortune. I am not competent 
to judge liim by a professional standard, but I 
may spea'- of him as he appeared to a patient. 
The non-professional view of a professional man, 
though not e.xact, and never technical, is apt to 
be in the long run not far from the truth, and is 
at any rat'" the view by which every professional 
man stands or falls. There were certain char- 
acteristics that would be sure to strike one who 
knew Dr Pierson. First of all, you owned the 
charm and felt the power of a personality at once 
forceful and attractive ; the erect, compact figure 
of medium height, ready servant of his will; the 
alert step, the genial voice, the cordial greeting, 
the cheery laugh that told his gayety of heart, the 
friendly interest, the serious attention, the in- 
tuitive insight, the enlighted, judicious action, 
the easy, self-reliant bearing that made you trust 
him because you saw he trusted himself : 
"Gifts sucb .is purchase, with unmlnted gold. 
Smiles from the .voung and bleaslngs from the old." 

307 



"A notable trait was his quick and close obser- 
vation. He was no wizard of the Sherlock 
Holmes order, a being whose existence outside of 
a book may well be doubted, but he had a keen 
eye for those little things that are so often the 
clues to great ones. And when he had reached 
the limit of proof, he could guess shrewdly from 
the known to the unknown, from the ascertained 
to the not immediately ascertainable, which, I 
hope that I may say without any oflFense to any 
physician, is in medicine, no less than in law 
and divinity, a useful and much employed ac- 
complishment. Another characteristic was his 
love for and mastery of the theory and practice 
of surgery. Nothing could be more reassuring 
than the promptness with which he took hold of 
a surgical case, the clearness of his analysis, the 
decision with which he operated or decided not to 
operate, and the success that almost always re- 
warded him. 

"Yet his real throne was not in the operating 
room, but in the family circle. It was said of a 
great English advocate that he was a thirteenth 
man on every jury he addressed. Dr. Pierson 
was an honorary member of every household that 
he visited. His very entrance into a room flooded 
it with sunshine. 'A merry heart,' we are told, 
'doeth good like a medicine.' Solomon might have 
added, what is no less true, that a merry heart 
improves the effect of medicine. It was in the 
homes of his patients, at the center of the strong 
and sensitive network of domestic interests and 
relationships, dealing with every vicissitude of 
physical being from birth to death, that Dr. Pier- 
son secured the confidence and won the hearts of 
all. This was the secret of his hold on the com- 
munity, of the affection that surrounded him like 
an atmosphere, of the sympathy that went out to 
him in his decline, of the overshadowing sense 
of a common loss when it was known that his 
course was run. What was his leading motive 
and ruling purpose ;— his master passion, if I may 
use so urgent a phrase? The answer to this 
question is as clear in my own mind as sunlight. 
It was to do good; not vaguely but definitely; 
by work and example rather than by talk and 
precept ; mainly, of course, in his own line, but 
also, very largely, in organized benevolent effort 
to help the wards of society and alleviate human 
suffering. To such objects he gave money, and 
what was worth more than money, his time, his 
counsel, his influence, and his happy, good-humor- 
ed faculty of stirring up others with a hearty 
stimulus to go and do likewise. How wisely and 
efficiently in all this, he was supported by the 
members of his own household I need not say, 
for that long since became and now is a part of 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



the familiar history and daily working of public 
charity in Orange." 

In 1907 a tablet to the memory of Dr. 
Pi'erson was erected in the Memorial Hos- 
pital, the event being a notable one in the 
community. Beautiful tributes were paid 
to the memory of Dr. Pierson by Drs. 
Young and Thomas W. Harvey, and the 
tablet was unveiled by Miss Caroline K. 
Herrick. It bears the following inscrip- 
tion : "In loving memory of William Pier- 
son, M. D., to whose untiring effort Or- 
ange Memorial Hospital owes its origin, 
this tablet is erected by those who have 
benefited by his skill and profited by his 
wisdom." 



RANDOLPH, Theodore Frelinghuysen, 

Governor, U. S. Senator. 

Theodore Frelinghuysen Randolph, legis- 
lator, and Governor of New Jersey, was 
born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, June 
24, 1816, son of James Fitz Randolph. 

He attended the Rutgers Grammar 
School, and in 1840 removed to Vicksburg, 
Mississippi, where he engaged in mercantile 
pursuits. He returned to New Jersey in 
1852, settling in Jersey City. He became in- 
terested in the mining and transportation 
of coal and iron, and was president of the 
Morris & Essex railroad many years. He 
was a representative in the State Legisla- 
ture, 1859-61 ; was elected State Senator in 
1862 to fill a vacancy, and was re-elected 
for the full term, serving 1862-65, and while 
in the Senate introduced a bill providing for 
a State Comptroller. In 1865 he removed 
to Morristown, New Jersey. He was elect- 
ed Governnor in 1869. During his ad- 
ministration the State Riparian Commission 
was established, the Camden & Amboy 
monopoly tax was repealed ; and the Morris 
Plains Lunatic Asylum was constructed. 
On the anniversary of the battle of the 
Boyne, July 12, 1871, he issued a proclama- 
tion insuring the right of parade to the 
Orangemen of New Jersey, giving them 



State protection, and thus avoiding a riot 
similar to the one that occurred in New 
York City the same day. He was United 
States Senator from New Jersey, 1875-81. 
He was a member of the Democratic Na- 
tional Committee : a trustee of Rutgers 
College ; and one of the founders and presi- 
dent of the Washington Headquarters As- 
sociation of Morristown, New Jersey. 

He married, in 185 1, Fanny F., daughter 
of N. D. Colman, of Kentucky. He died 
in Morristown, New Jersey, November 7, 
1883. 



JOHNSON, J. Augustus, 

LaTpyer, Diplomatist. 

It was the distinction of Hon. J. Augus- 
tus Johnson to hold high position in the dip- 
lomatic service of the nation under four 
different administrations — a most remark- 
able, and perhaps, an unparalleled record. 
He was appointed by President Buchanan 
to his first consular position, and was con- 
tinued under Presidents Lincoln, Johnson 
and Grant, receiving the personal thanks of 
President Lincoln for valuable service in 
Syria. He was known to the scholars of 
the world as the discoverer of the Hamath 
inscriptions ; to the political economists as 
president of the Confederated Good Gov- 
ernment clubs and other reform organiza- 
tions ; and to seamen as their untiring 
friend in securing better conditions for 
them, both while afloat and ashore. He 
was one of the six sons of Reverend Lor- 
enzo Dow Johnson, an eminent minister 
whose sons rose to equal eminence in the 
different professions they embraced. The 
family through direct lineage and inter- 
marriage date to Colonial and Revolution- 
ary days, and number many of the distin- 
guished men and women of New England 
among their ancestors. 

J. Augustus Johnson, son of Reverend 
Lorenzo Dow and Mary (Burges) John- 
son, was born in Boston, Massachusetts, 
June 3, 1836, and died in South Orange, 



308 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



New Jersey, February 27, 1914. He at- 
tained a profound knowledge of science, 
literature and law, and was duly admitted 
to practice his profession in all State and 
Federal courts of New York and other 
States, and to the Supreme Court at Wash- 
ington, District of Columbia. The law did 
not particularly appeal to him in his young- 
er years, the political atmosphere of Wash- 
ington and the service of his country being 
more in accordance with his tastes. He spent 
some years at Washington in his later boy- 
hood, doing secretary work for different 
Senators and in small government posi- 
tions before obtaining an appointment to 
the consular service. In 1858 he received 
from President Buchanan the appointment 
as United States Consul at Beirut, Syria, 
and later performing there important ser- 
vice under President Lincoln, from whom 
he received personal thanks in 1862. In 
1867 he was raised to the rank of Consul 
General by President Johnson, continuing 
in Syria under President Grant, who also 
entrusted to him delicate matters of State 
to be adjusted between the United States 
and the Ottoman government, which ne- 
cessitated his being sent to Jaffa and Cy- 
prus. It was in 1870 that he discovered the 
Hamath inscriptions at Hamath, in North- 
ern Syria, that gave him a worldwide rep- 
utation among scienti'sts. and shortly af- 
terward he resigned from the consular ser- 
vice and returned to the United States. He 
located in New York City, began the prac- 
tice of law and so continued during his re- 
maining active years, gaining honorable 
position as an able and upright wise coun- 
selor and advocate. He took an active 
part in the political activities of New York 
City, and was a member of the "Commit- 
tee of Seventy" in 1894, joining with vigor 
in all the movements that tended toward 
better and purer politics. He was an apos- 
tle of Civil Service reform, and strongly 
supported the policy of organizing "Good 

309 



Government" clubs in various states. He 
was an active member of the Civil Service 
Reform Association, and president of the 
Council of Confederated Good Govern- 
ment Clubs. While his interest in all mu- 
nicipal affairs was intense, he was espec- 
ially interested in the public schools and in 
sailors. He was active in the movement 
that gave to the latter the splendid building 
at 25 State street, the Seaman's Church In- 
stitute, the Seamen's Legal Aid Society, 
and in the enactment of laws for their pro- 
tection. He was a member of many legal 
and scientific societies, the Lawyers Club, 
and Union League of New York City, join- 
ing the latter body in 1875. 

His Colonial and Revolutionary ancestry 
gained him right of entrance to many soci- 
eties basing their membership on early co- 
lonial descent, a privilege he exercised in 
many instances, belonging to the Society of 
Colonial Wars, Sons of the American Rev- 
olution, the New England Society, and 
others. His name was everywhere hon- 
ored, and his long life of seventy-eight years 
was one well spent and fruitful. He was 
a member of the Congregational church, 
and in all things measured up to the full 
stature of a man. He was a great reader, 
an interesting, pleasing speaker, and a 
strong forceful contributor to the literature 
of the profession and associations of which 
he was a member. Broadminded and pub- 
lic-spirited, he wielded a strong influence 
over his fellows that was always used for 
wise and beneficent purposes. 

Mr. Johnson married (first) in 1857, 
Sarah M. Barclay, of Virginia, who bore 
him two sons, Barclay and Tristram John- 
son, the latter a prominent figure in the po- 
litical world until his death in 191 1. He 
married (second) in 1886. Fanny Valeda 
Matthews, who bore him a son, Hallett ; and 
a daughter, Valeda. Mrs. Fanny V. John- 
son survives her husband, residing at 460 
Scotland road. South Orange, New Jersey. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



KIRKPATRICK, Hon. Andrew, 

Lawyer, Federal Jurist. 

Judge Andrew Kirkpatrick, says his biog- 
rapher, "was the type of all that is highest 
and best in American civilization, of the 
purest integrity, and the loftiest ideals, de- 
voted to the obligations of his family, and 
bound to his friends by attainments most 
amiable, and attractive in his personal char- 
acter." He was bom in Washington, D. C, 
October 8, 1844, and died in Newark, New 
Jersey, May 3, 1904, son of John Bayard 
and Margaret (Weaver) Kirkpatrick. His 
father was born in New Brunswick, where 
he passed his life as one of its most enter- 
prising citizens, a few years excepted, when 
he was acting as Third Assistant Auditor 
of the United States Treasury. Hon. An- 
drew Kirkpatrick, grandfather of Judge 
Kirkpatrick, is written of on another page 
of this work. 

Judge Kirkpatrick was educated at the 
Rutgers Grammar School in New Bruns- 
wick, and at Princeton College, where he re- 
mained for three years and left to graduate 
at Union College, Schenectady, New York, 
from which he graduated in 1863, receiv- 
ing his honorary degree of M. A. from 
Princeton University in 1870, and in 1903 
the degree of LL.D. from Union College. 
He then entered the office of the Hon. Fred- 
erick Theodore Frelinghuysen, of Newark, 
and was admitted to the New Jersey bar as 
attorney in 1866, and as counsellor in 1869. 
For several years he practiced as one of the 
members of the firm of Frederick Theodore 
Frelinghuysen, and then he went into part- 
nership with the Hon. Frederick H. Teese. 
He was eminently successful, and was a rec- 
ognized leader. In April, 1885, he was ap- 
pointed judge of the Essex county court of 
common pleas by Governor .'\bbett, and 
continuously reappointed until i8g6, when 
he resigned to become judge of the United 
States district court of New Jersey, which 
position was then offered to him by Presi- 
dent Grover Cleveland. This position he 

3 



held until his death. "His career on the 
bench showed a wide knowledge of the law, 
together with a large fund of common sense, 
and his methods were celebrated for this 
latter trait. He acquitted himself with hon- 
or, and the brevity of his charges to juries 
were frequently commented on * * * 
His legal knowledge was brought to bear 
on the cases, to the disentanglement of many 
knotty problems. His record as a federal 
judge was brilliant, and to his courtesy and 
humanity there were hundreds to testify. 
Quick-witted, intolerant of shams of any 
kind, and broad-minded. Judge Kirkpatrick 
conducted cases to the admiration of law- 
yers and jurists of many minds * * * 
He possessed wide reading and because of 
the soundness of his judgment his opinions 
carried weight in the legal world. They 
were regarded as peculiarly clear in state- 
ment and had the quality of being easily 
comprehended by the lay mind. He was a 
keen student of human nature, a man of 
force and insight of character." Among the 
important commercial and corporation cases 
determined by him were the United States 
Steel Company, the United States Ship- 
building Company, and the Asphalt Trust. 
He was essentially the lawyer and the judge 
with administrative powers of a high or- 
der, and on one memorable occasion he ex- 
ercised these powers for the great advantage 
of one of the most extensive businesses in 
the country. In 1893 the Domestic Manu- 
facturing Company failed, and Judge Kirk- 
patrick was appointed receiver with authori- 
ty to continue the business of making and 
selling Domestic sewing machines. Notwith- 
standing the unexampled financial depres- 
sion which marked the year of the World's 
Fair he discharged his trust with such skill 
that works with hundreds of employees con- 
tinued in operation, and at the expiration 
of his official term as receiver he delivered 
the property to the stockholders entirely 
freed from its embarrassments and with as- 
sets sufficient to pay all of its creditors in 
full. He was one of the organizers and for 



10 




ANDRF.W KIKK PATRICK 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



some time was president of the Federal 
Trust Company, a director in the Howard 
Savings Institution, treasurer of the T. P. 
Howell Company, a director in the Fidel- 
ity Title and Deposit Company, a director 
in the Newark Gas Company, a member of 
the Newark City Hall commission, and a 
member of the Newark Sinking Fund com- 
mission. He was the treasurer and one of 
the original governors of the Essex Club, 
and one of the organizers of the Sons of 
the American Revolution. 

In 1869 he married (first) Alice, daugh- 
ter of Joel W. and Margaret (Harrison) 
Condit, the sister of Estelle Condit, who 
married Thomas Talmadge Kinney. Their 
three children were: i. Andrew, of New 
York City, born October 12, 1870; edu- 
cated at St. Paul's School, Concord, New 
Hampshire; spent one year at Cornell, and 
five years in the Pennsylvania railroad shops 
at Altoona; became assistant road foreman 
of engines of the Pennsylvania railroad, and 
is now in the automobile business ; he mar- 
ried Mae Bittner and has one child, An- 
drew, Jr. 2. John Bayard, born May i, 
1872 ; attended St. Paul's School ; graduated 
from Harvard University in 1894, and from 
the law school of that instittuion in 1897; 
admitted to the New Jersey bar as an at- 
torney in February, 1898, and as counsellor 
in February, 1901. 3. Alice Condit, born 
December 11, 1874; graduated from St. 
Agnes' School, Albany, New York. In 1883 
Judge Kirkpatrick married (second) Louise 
C, daughter of Theodore P. and Elizabeth 
Woodruf? (King) Howell, of New York 
City, and their three children are : 4. Lit- 
tleton, born September 2. 1884; attended 
Newark Academy, St. Paul's School, and 
graduated from Princeton LTniversity in 
1906 ; engaged in the real estate and insur- 
ance business, under the firm name of Kirk- 
patrick & Young; married, June 9, 1908, 
Amanda Lewis Crane. 5. Isabelle, born 
January 18, 1886; married Albert H. 
Marckwald, of Short Hills, New Jersey. 6. 
Elizabeth, born August 2. 1895. 

31 



LADD, Benjamin F., 

Inflnential Journalist. 

The calling that Benjamin F. Ladd pur- 
sued in Vineland, New Jersey, — journalism, 
— was one that brought him much in the 
public eye. but the fact that he was widely 
known does not explain his great popularity 
nor the universal respect in which his 
memory is held, regard and liking that came 
in recognition of his many excellent vir- 
tues. For thirty-seven years he was con- 
nected with the Vineland "Evening Jour- 
nal," for thirty-five years of that time as 
sole owner and editor, and as the head of 
that newspaper he placed it among the lead- 
ers of journals of its standing. A promin- 
ent figure in local affairs, he was identified 
in official capacity with many of Vineland's 
most important institutions, and everywhere 
was accorded sincere respect for the up- 
rightness of his life and the sturdy manner 
in which he stood by his convictions. Even 
during a lifetime passed in a profession in 
which enemies are more easily made than 
in any other he avoided the bitterness and 
hard feeling that so often results from an 
ill considered or unstably founded state- 
ment, and, while defending to the last his 
opinion and judgment, never used his paper 
to promulgate falsehood or to publish that 
which best remained unprinted. At his 
death it was written by his associates that 
there passed "a man of sterling purpose 
for the right, a good citizen, a real friend." 
His death marked his yielding to a cardiac 
ailment whose effects extended over a 
period of four years, and occurred at his 
home on Landis avenue, December 18, 1913. 

The family of which Benjamin F. Ladd 
was a member was founded in America by 
Samuel Ladd, who settled in Haverhill, 
Massachusetts, in 1649, coming from his 
home in England, where he had fought 
against the Cromwellian forces in the army 
of King Charles. The descent from the 
founder to Benjamin F. Ladd, of Vineland, 
is through John, David, Jeremiah, and 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Cyrus, to Chester, grandfather of Benjamin 
F. Chester Ladd was born in Burlington, 
New York, in 1795, and left the State of his 
birth to settle in Pennsylvania, moving 
thence to Rockford, Illinois, where he was 
among the pioneers, pursuing the farmer's 
calling. He was a man of deep religious 
beliefs, and although not an ordained min- 
ister preached at the informal church ser- 
vices held by the settlers of the region. He 
married Harriet Hammond and was the 
father of Harvey Ladd. father of Benjamin 
F. Ladd. 

Harvey Hammond Ladd was born in Bur- 
lington, New York, May 22, 1825, and died 
in Chicago, Illinois, in 1880. His early life 
was spent in his birthplace, and prior to 
1840 he moved to what became known as 
the oil district of Pennsylvania, when the 
wealth of the underlying mineral deposits 
became known. His home was on Oil 
Creek, the present site of Oil City, and 
there for a time he taught school, later mov- 
ing to Belvidere, Illinois, where he learned 
the carpenter's trade. Appleton, Wisconsin, 
was his next home, and in this locality he 
became interested in the cutting and dressing 
of lumber, dealing in lumber for several 
years. In 1865 he moved to Vineland, New 
Jersey, making his home in this place for 
fourteen years, and in 1879 went to Chicago, 
Illinois, where his death occurred one year 
later. He was an early member of the 
Sons of Temperance, was also much inter- 
ested in matters educational, and in Vine- 
land, which at the time of his settlement was 
in its youth, served for several years as 
school trustee. He married, in 1850, Lu- 
cinda D. Perry, who, at a great age, sur- 
vives him to the present time ( 1915 ), daugh- 
ter of Benjamin F. and Abigail (Newland) 
Perry, her grandfather Perry a Revolu- 
tionary soldier and a cousin of Commodore 
Perry, who won his fame in the War of 
1812. Children of Harvey and Lucinda D. 
(Perry) Ladd: Benjamin F., of whom 
further; and Clara L. Field, who is still 
living. 

31- 



Benjamin F., son of Harvey and Lucinda 
D. (Perry) Ladd, was born in Appleton, 
Wisconsin, May 4, 1855. His earliest school 
training was gained in Stevensville, where 
his parents were for a short time residing, 
and he afterward attended the Appleton 
school, completing his education in the Vine- 
land high school. At the time of his en- 
trance to the Vineland school, its classes 
were held in the Plum Street Hall, and here 
he came under the teaching of Professor 
(Tharles Wright. He learned the printer's 
trade in the office of the "Vineland 
Weekly," and was also for a time employed 
in the office of the "Independent." His ca- 
reer as a publisher began on May i, 1876, 
when, in partnership with Obert Spencer, 
he purchased the "Evening Journal," a 
paper of one year's standing, established by 
Walter E. Cansdell. which was at first the 
"Daily Journal," but was changed to the 
"Evening Journal," December 14. 1880. 
This association continued until June 24, 
1878, when Mr. Spencer retired from the 
firm and Mr. Ladd became sole owner of 
the paper, the publication of which he con- 
tinued until his death. That the standard 
of the "Evening Journal" has been kept 
high and that the paper has proved itself 
worthy of the patronage of the townspeople 
is shown in the fact that during its life more 
than a dozen newspapers began publication, 
only to find themselves unable to remove 
"The Journal" from its secure entrench- 
ments of public favor. A Democrat in poli- 
tics, Mr. Ladd devoted his paper to the ser- 
vice of that party, but in politics, as in all 
else, the truth was stated with no attempt 
at deceit or compromise. 

In connection with his publishing inter- 
ests, Mr. Ladd was for a time engaged in 
real estate and insurance business in part- 
nership with the late Thomas B. Steel, but 
after the death of Mr. Steel he sold the bus- 
iness to Henry Taylor. In the organization 
of the Tradesmen's Bank he played an im- 
portant part, becoming a member of the 
board of directors, and on the death of Mr. 




Z^CJ^ 1 



/^ cc/i^cj2.i:y 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



S. R. Fowler succeeded to the vice-presi- 
dency, of which office he was the incumbent 
at his death. His concern for the industrial 
and commercial welfare of Vineland found 
expression in his work in the Board of 
Trade, of which he was president for a 
term of years, and in all things that called 
for the support of good citizenship and pub- 
lic spirit he was a resourceful and energetic 
leader. Mr. Ladd was a member of the 
Free and Accepted Masons and the Royal 
Arcanum. 

Mr. Ladd married, November 23, 1878, 
Julia M. Gifford, daughter of Chester C. 
Giflford, a pioneer resident of Vineland. 
Mrs. Ladd survives her husband with four 
children, Charles F., George C, Mary B., 
and Edward H. 



KINNEY, Thomas Talmadge, 

Journalist, Enterprising Citizen. 

Thomas Talmadge Kinney, eldest child 
of William Burnet Kinney (q. v.), by his 
first wife, Mary Chandler, was born in 
Newark, August 15, 1821, and died there, 
December 2, 1900. 

He received his early education in the 
Newark Academy, and was prepared for col- 
lege in the classical school of Rev. William 
R. Weeks, D. D. In 1841 he was graduated 
from Princeton University. Among his 
classmates were John Craig Biddle, Francis 
Preston Blair, Amzi Dodd, Theodore Led- 
yard Cuyler, and Archibald Alexander 
Hodge. As a student he showed particular 
aptitude for the natural sciences. In his 
senior year he served as assistant to his pro- 
fessor, the distinguished Dr. Joseph Henry, 
and the intimacy thus established ripened 
into a personal friendship which continued 
throughout life. After his graduation he 
studied law in the office of Hon. Joseph P. 
Bradley, who later became an Associate Jus- 
tice of the Supreme Court of the United 
States. He was admitted to the New Jersey 
bar in 1844, but never practiced. Upon the 
retirement of his father from the editorship 

313 



of the Newark "Daily Advertiser" in 1851, 
he succeeded as editor and manager. To his 
work he devoted much energy, maintaining 
the high character of the paper in all re- 
spects. He especially applied himself to the 
development of facilities for newsgathering, 
and was an important factor in the original 
system which culminated in the comprehen- 
sive organization known as the Associated 
Press. In i860 he bought the property on 
the southeast corner of Market and Broad 
streets, Newark, which was then and still is 
the business center of the city. 

Mr. Kinney was the projector of the 
Newark Board of Trade, and was sent by 
that body as its delegate to the convention 
which organized the National Board of 
Trade in Philadelphia. One of the found- 
ers of the Society for the Prevention of 
Cruelty to Animals, he was for many years 
its president. For a long time he was a 
trustee and the active manager of the Asy- 
lum for the Indigent Deaf and Dumb Chil- 
dren of New Jersey. He was also a mem- 
ber of the New Jersey State Board of Ge- 
ology, and from 1878 to 1882 was president 
of the State Board of Agriculture, of which 
he was for many years a member. In i860 
he was one of the delegates to the Repub- 
lican National Convention at Chicago, ac- 
tively supporting the nomination of Abra- 
ham Lincoln for the presidency. He was a 
director of the National State Bank, of 
Newark, the Newark City Ice Company, and 
the Stephens & Condit Transportation Com- 
pany, and was one of the founders of the 
Newark Electric Light and Power Com- 
pany, and the Fidelity Title and Deposit 
Company, of which he was president for 
many years from its organization. He was 
a member of the board of East Jersey Pro- 
prietors, and an hereditary member of the 
Society of the Cincinnati. About 1895 he 
retired from the management of the "Daily 
Advertiser." He was a staunch Republican, 
and when James G. Blaine was Secretary 
of State he received the offer of Minister 
to Italy, which he declined. Having always 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



a decided preference for quiet and unpre- 
tending pursuits and the life of a private 
citizen, he was never a candidate for public 
office. In his personal character he was ac- 
tive and earnest in devotion to his duties and 
obligations, possessing strong domestic af- 
fections and warm friendly attachments, and 
he exerted throughout his life a useful in- 
fluence. 

He married, October i, 1863, Estelle, 
daughter of Joel W. and Margaret (Harri- 
son) Condit. She was born in Newark, and 
died there, December 26, 1907. Her life 
was marked by keen interest and much ac- 
tivity, quietly exercised, in philanthropic 
work in Newark. One of the founders of 
the Babies' Hospital and its president, she 
was incessant in her efforts to promote the 
usefulness of that institution. In a reso- 
lution of the board of managers of the hos- 
pital the following tribute was paid to her : 
"Kind, generous, and wise, her nature was 
adapted to the good work, and her great 
business capacity made her the best of man- 
agers and advisers. The hospital is a mon- 
ument to her goodness and wisdom." The 
Newark Exchange for Women's Work was 
established in 1881 at a meeting held in her 
home, and she was its president until her 
death. This organization also has placed on 
record testimony to her conscientious and 
valuable services, in which reference is made 
to her "broad and ready sympathy with all 
in trouble or need ; her innumerable acts 
of charity and kindness, which she with 
modest spirit made nothing of; her genial 
spirit, which was an uplift to all who came 
in touch with her; her many graces of 
mind and heart." She was descended from 
John Condit, who came to America in 1678, 
and with his son Peter settled in Newark, 
where he purchased lands. 

Children of Thomas Talmadge and Es- 
telle (Condit) Kinney: i. Mary Clemen- 
tine, born August 12, 1864; married Wil- 
liam Campbell Clark, of Newark ; children : 
i. Estelle Campbell Clark: ii. Mai Felicity 
Clark. 2. Margaret Condit, born October 



28, 1865; married, April 14, 1904, Carroll 
Phillips Bassett ; children : i. Carroll Kin- 
ney Bassett ; ii. Estelle Condit Bassett ; iii. 
William Burnet Kinney Bassett. J- Estelle 
Burnet, born July 9, 1868; married Freder- 
ick, son of Hon. Frederick T. Frelinghuy- 
sen, of Newark ; children : i. Frederick 
Frelinghuysen ; ii. Thomas Talmadge Kin- 
ney Frelinghuysen ; iii. Theodore Freling- 
huysen ; iv. George Frelinghuysen. 4. Wil- 
liam Burnet, lawyer. 5. Thomas Talmadge, 
born October 24, 1872; died February 14, 
1885. 



BEATTIE, Robert, 

Enterprising Mannfactnrer. 

No man in Passaic county has been more 
prominently identified with her progres- 
sive advancement than the late Robert 
Beattie, head of the Beattie Manufactur- 
ing Company many years, to whom is due 
much of the substantial development upon 
which rests the prosperity and happiness 
of the community. He ever manifested a 
public spirited loyalty to all interests for 
the general good, and his practical ideas 
and untiring labors left their impress on 
many of the most beneficial improvements 
of the county. 

His father, also Robert Beattie, was a 
native of Ireland, from which country he 
emigrated to America in the first half of 
the nineteenth century. More than half a 
century ago he founded the business which 
has since become such an important indus- 
try. He purchased a building at Little 
Falls, Passaic county. New Jersey, which 
had been used as a grist mill, remodeled it 
for his purpose, and installed the necessary 
equipment for the manufacture of ingrain 
and three-ply carpet. He was one of the 
pioneer carpet manufacturers of this coun- 
try. It is said that the first power loom 
ever used for carpet weaving was installed 
and operated by Mr. Beattie about the 
year 1840. It was invented and manufac- 
tured by Nicholas Haight, at that time the 



3M 




-&^.£s^j:^f0f.-aa>^ ^^j-^ /^y 



c^^j-C^^-^^z?^ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



manager of the New Jersey and Little 
Falls Carpet Company, which had been or- 
ganized in New York in 1822. Mr. Beattie 
went to Little Falls to start the looms of 
this company, but they did not prove a 
success. The invention, however, had suf- 
ficient merit to cause E. B. Bigelow to 
make a careful study of it prior to perfect- 
ing the loom which gained for him fortune 
and fame. During the Civil War Mr. 
Beattie, with the sagacity of the keen 
sighted business man, abandoned the man- 
ufacture of carpets, and devoted his atten- 
tion and looms to the manufacture of blan- 
kets, a bit of business acumen which af- 
forded ample returns. Upon the termina- 
tion of the war, he resumed his carpet man- 
ufacturing operations. He married Agnes 
McGraw, a native of Scotland, and had 
children : Robert and William, Mary, Cath- 
erine, Josephine Agnes. 

Robert Beattie, the particular subject of 
this sketch, was born in New York City, 
January 10, 1842, and died at his home at 
Little Fails, Passaic county, New Jersey, 
January 29, 1910, after an illness of several 
weeks duration, from a complication of 
diseases. Upon the completion of his educa- 
tion he became associated in the carpet man- 
ufacturing business with his fatlier, and was 
identified with this industry tliroughout his 
life. As above stated, the business was 
founded by the elder Beattie in 1840; it was 
operated as the Little Falls Carpet Mills, 
1843-1871, under the title of Robert Beattie 
& Sons, 1871-1882, and was incorporated 
as the Beattie Manufacturing Company, in 
1882, at which time the elder Robert Beat- 
tie became president of the corporation, and 
his son William, treasurer. They had New 
York offices at No. 133 Fifth avenue, and 
a Chicago office at No. 1509 Hey worth 
Building, of which R. Howard Beattie, a son 
of William, had charge many years. In 
1870 Brussels and tapestry carpets were 
added to the output of the mill, and sub- 
sequently velvet and felt carpets were also 
manufactured there. LTpon the death of 

315 



the elder Mr. Beattie, the business was car- 
ried on by his two sons, and when William 
Beattie died in 1897, Robert Beattie be- 
came president of the company, conduct- 
ing its affairs with remarkable executive 
ability, and retaining his active interest in 
everything connected with it until a few 
weeks prior to his death. In recent years 
velvet carpets and rugs have been manufac- 
tured exclusively, the demand for carpets 
having gradually died out, as the practical 
utility of rugs has become more and more 
apparent. The business is now carried on 
by the younger members of the Beattie fam- 
ily. At a meeting of the stockholders of 
the company after the death of Mr. Beattie, 
Robert Beattie Jr., his son, was elected a 
director, and R. Howard Beattie, a son of 
the late William Beattie, was elected presi- 
dent. The death of Mr. Beattie cast a 
wide spread gloom over the community. 
The services were attended by prominent 
men from all parts of the country, and 
the remains were interred in the family 
plot at Laurel Grove Cemetery. 

Mr. Beattie married (first) Sophia Sig- 
ler; (second) Ruth Woodhull, of New 
York State. By the first marriage he had 
a son, William H., now superintendent of 
the mills at Little Falls, and a daughter, 
Kate; by the second marriage he had: 
Robert Jr., assistant superintendent of the 
mills, and Frank Kitching. Mr. Beattie was 
well preserved, dignified and courteous in 
his demeanor, and of kindly disposition. The 
portrait accompanying this sketch is from 
a photograph taken when he was forty- 
eight years of age. He was a notably gen- 
erous man, of a deeply sympathetic nature, 
and his contributions to charitable and re- 
ligious projects were always liberal in the 
extreme. He was a man of broad and lib- 
eral views. Especially fond of travel, he 
spent much time in this form of recrea- 
tion, but preferred travel in his own country 
to that abroad. Hunting and fishing also 
received their due share of attention, and 
he was an expert in both sports. He took 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



a deep and beneficial interest in forestry, 
was a pioneer member of the Northwood 
Club, in the Adirondacks, and also of an 
organization formed to protect the timber 
lands of the same section. His social af- 
filiation nearer his home was with the 
Hamilton Club, of Paterson, New Jersey. 



CUTHBERT, Mayland, 

Naval Officer in the Civil War. 

Those things which men bear in their 
minds and hearts as thoughts and senti- 
ments worthy of remembrance and which 
they are fond of quoting, serve as almost 
unfailing indices to their lives and charac- 
ters, for those things whith men cherish, 
whether as ideals or lower passions, leave 
indelible imprints upon their lives. So it 
was with Mayland Cuthbert, of Beverly, 
New Jersey, and the key to his calm faith 
and assurance in his later years of a final 
shepherding by the Good Shepherd was 
found in his love for the sweet verses of the 
poet which conclude, 

"I hope to see my Pilot face to face, 
When I have crossed the bar." 

Guided through his life of sixty-eight years 
by this hope, strong in his faith to the end, 
he so lived that men could find no smirch 
upon his name or reputation, and bore to 
his grave the loving respect and regard of 
his community, his business associates, and 
his former comrades of the battle field. 

The life of Mayland Cuthbert, early de- 
voted to technical and professional train- 
ing, was turned from the course of steady 
effort and advancement it would naturally 
have followed by the outbreak of the War 
between the States. This conflict he en- 
tered as an engineer in the United States 
navy, being in active service from August, 
1861, until his honorable discharge from 
the navy in August of 1864, receiving a 
severe wound at the battle of Port Royal 
that caused him suffering for the remain- 
der of his life. Returning to civil life, he 

316 



pursued the business that had claimed him 
prior to his enlistment, that of drugs, fol- 
lowing this in Scranton and Philadelphia, 
Pennsylvania, then, after a short residence 
in Colorado, forming an association with 
James S. Mason & Company, of Philadel- 
phia, that continued until his death. 

Mr. Cuthbert traced his family line to 
distinguished ancestry, and was a grand- 
son of Captain Anthony Cuthbert, of Rev- 
olutionary fame, who won conspicuous no- 
tice by his gallant defence of his company's 
guns at the battle of Trenton. He was also 
a descendant of David Ogden, who came to 
America in the "good ship Welcome." 

Mayland Cuthbert, son of Samuel and 
Anna (Mayland) Cuthbert, was born in 
Philadelphia, .April 11, 1838, and died at his 
home on the bank of the Delaware, Edge- 
water Park, Beverly, New Jersey, April 30, 
1906. He was educated in the schools of 
his native city, and when a youth of sixteen 
years entered the druggist establishment of 
Bullock & Crenshaw. His vision of useful- 
ness extended far beyond the mere earning 
of a weekly wage, and when, two years 
later, he was offered the opportunity of 
studying analytical chemistry in the labora- 
tory of Professor James C. Booth, he at 
once accepted. In December, 1857, Mr. 
Cuthbert, then only nineteen years of age, 
was honored by election to the Academy of 
Natural Sciences. In 1859 he experienced 
another great advance in his profession by 
his appointment as assistant and superin- 
tendent in Dr. Edward R. Squibb's chemical 
laboratory in Brooklyn, New York, al- 
though he there remained for but one year. 
The cause of his leaving this position was 
the political disturbances between the north 
and south, which seemed as though they 
might at any minute precipitate the country 
into civil war. Feeling strongly on the sub- 
jects in dispute, convinced that war could 
not be averted, if even long delayed, certain 
that the Union would find more than suffi- 
cient defenders in the army ranks, he re- 
solved to prepare himself for service in 



I 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



which there would be little of the spectacu- 
lar but much of the useful, and entered the 
Philadelphia machine shop of Neafie & 
Levy, to qualify for engineer in the United 
States navy. So assiduously did he apply 
himself to his tasks, so rapidly did he mas- 
ter all of the technical and practical side of 
engineering, that on August 24, 1861, he 
was accepted as third assistant engineer in 
the United States navy, on April 21, 1863, 
being promoted to the rank of second as- 
sistant engineer. His first ship was the 
"Mohican," and among others he served on 
the "Pequod" and "Powhatan" in the course 
of his three years service. He was on the 
"Mohican" in the battle of Port Royal, and 
in the course of this engagement received 
a serious wound, a piece of shell laying 
bare the femoral artery. In 1864 Mr. Cuth- 
bert resigned from the service and was hon- 
orably discharged on August 22, being 
raised from the rank of ensign to that of 
lieutenant. 

Returning from the war, he for a time 
conducted drug operations in Scranton, 
Pennsylvania, then following the same bus- 
iness in Philadelphia. Here he began to 
suffer more severely from the wound he 
had received at Port Royal and which had 
never ceased troubling him, and so moved 
to Colorado, in the hope that the more brac- 
ing climate would induce complete recovery. 
While in the west, he dealt in real estate, 
and upon once more returning to his birth- 
place, Philadelphia, he formed a connection 
with James S. Mason & Company, in the 
manufacture of blacking, that continued 
throughout his active years. 

Mr. Cuthbert was a member of the Penn- 
sylvania Society, Sons of the Revolution; 
the Naval Order of the United States; 
the Army and Navy Club, of Washington, 
District of Columbia ; and the Military 
Order of the Loyal Legion, being elected to 
class one membership, February 6, 1889. 
He was a communicant of the Protestant 
Episcopal church, and in politics staunchly 
upheld Republican principles. Mr. Cuth- 

31: 



bert was one of the first residents of that 
beautiful section of Beverly known as Edge- 
water Park, and here, in his home on the 
Delaware, he died. In closing this brief re- 
view of his useful career, the following is 
quoted from a record filed by his com- 
panions of the Loyal Legion : 

"Those who knew him intimately admired his 
strong will and his untiring energy, his broad 
sense of justice to his fellow men, his integrity 
and good faith in all things, and especially his 
supersensitive sense of honor in all matters in- 
volving honesty and good faith in the fulfillment 
of promises. Companion Cuthbert was a man of 
keen and quick perceptions and ever ready and 
courageous to defend his convictions." 

Mayland Cuthbert married, October 6, 
1863, Fanny Chambers, daughter of James 
E. and Clarissa McCauley (Chambers) 
Brooks. Their son Allen now holds an im- 
portant position as civil engineer with the 
Pennsylvania Railroad Company, and is 
stationed at the Altoona, Pennsylvania, 
headquarters of the company. 



McKENZIE, William, 

Pnblic-Spirited Citizen. 

Seldom does an alien by birth become so 
thoroughly imbued with a spirit of devo- 
tion and interest in his adopted commun- 
ity as did William McKenzie, of Carlton 
Hill, first mayor of the borough of East 
Rutherford, New Jersey, and organizer and 
first president of many of the now import- 
ant institutions of Rutherford and East 
Rutherford. He revived the almost de- 
funct Boiling Springs Bleachery at Carl- 
ton Hill, set its machinery again in success- 
ful operation, and had the proud satisfac- 
tion of turning it again into a "hive of in- 
dustry," employing over six hundred 
hands, and by this means restoring pros- 
perity to the community. He entered 
heartily into the public life of Boiling 
Springs township, Bergen county, became 
one of the leading Republicans of the coun- 
ty, and by his energy, initiative and politi- 
cal acumen, placed that county high in the 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



favor of the Republican party, although 
once himself defeated for the Assembly. 
He was one of the organizers of several 
important corporations, freely supported all 
good causes, and left behind him many 
monuments to his business ability, his 
public spirit and his devoted interest in 
the community of his adoption. 

William McKenzie was born in Glas- 
gow, Scotland, August 22, 1841, and died 
at his handsome residence at Carlton Hill, 
Bergen county, New Jersey, April 12, 19 15. 
He was educated in Glasgow, and became 
familiar with cotton manufacture in the 
famous mills of his native land, not com- 
ing to the United States until he had at- 
tained young manhood. Upon first com- 
ing to this country he located in New Eng- 
land, was with the Norwich Bleachery 
Company, at Norwich, Connecticut, for a 
period of eighteen years, commencing in 
1866, then one year with the Bunnell Man- 
ufacturing Company, of Pawtucket, Rhode 
Island. He then came to Carlton Hill, New 
Jersey, and, forming a partnership, ob- 
tained control of the lifeless Boiling 
Springs Bleachery, restored it to a condi- 
tion of usefulness, and built up a splendid 
business under the name of the Standard 
Bleachery Company, of which he became 
president when it was incorporated in 1896. 
The rebuilding of the fortunes of the 
bleachery was not an easy task, but one 
that taxed his powers to the utmost, and 
for several years after his coming to Carl- 
ton Hill, he devoted his great energies and 
executive ability to the conduct of his pri- 
vate business affairs, the public seeing but 
little of him. In 1905 he and his sons be- 
came the sole proprietors of these exten- 
sive works. 

The plant of the standard Bleachery at 
Carlton Hill covers more than twelve acres 
of ground, and it is the largest concern of 
its kind in the world. Its operations con- 
sist in the conversion of cotton piece 
goods from gray cloths, as they come from 
the loom, into the fine, finished products 

318 



which eventually reach the market. These 
goods, manufactured principally in New 
England, are shipped direct to the bleach- 
ery. They include lawns, India linens, or- 
gandies, crepes, Swiss curtains, Persian 
lawns, long cloth, embroidery goods, and 
a number of fancy woven fabrics for wo- 
men's and children's dresses, in plain and 
mercerized finish. Many processes of great 
interest are used in converting the fabrics 
into the finished product, several days be- 
ing spent in passing through the various 
stages of development. When finished the 
goods are neatly packed and shipped all 
over the world, the bleachery having a rep- 
utation for careful workmanship, which is 
unsurpassed. An average of one thousand 
hands are now employed, and the plant is 
operated day and night. The village of 
Carlton Hill is practically an outgrowth 
of this industry's development, and the 
company owns eighty acres of land. The 
offices of the company are at Carlton Hill, 
and at No. 320 Broadway, New York. 

When this business was on a firm footing 
and prosperity had come to him, Mr. Mc- 
Kenzie mingled more with the people, and 
hand in hand with other leaders worked 
for community good. His first public inter- 
est was in township affairs. As chairman 
of the executive committee from Boiling 
Springs township, he sat in the county com- 
mittee, becoming thoroughly familiar with 
political conditions, and in 1898 was chair- 
man of the Republican county executive 
committee, declining the position in 1899. 
He was defeated for office in his earlier 
days, but that only nerved him to greater 
energy, and to his efforts and influence final 
party success in Bergen county is due. He 
became well known in political circles all 
over the county and state, and in 1896 was 
elected by the State Convention as delegate 
to the Republican National Convention, held 
in St. Louis. He was a member of the 
Passaic Sewerage Commission for a period 
of twelve years. 

When East Rutlierford craved borough 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



dignity, Mr. McKenzie furthered that am- 
bition by personal work and influence, and 
when it was finally incorporated, was elected 
its first mayor, and served several terms. 
He was one of the organizers, and the first 
president, of the Rutherford and East 
Rutherford Board of Trade ; was one of 
the founders of the Rutherford Free 
Library, and its first vice-president ; one of 
the founders of the East Rutherford Free 
Library; one of the incorporators, of the 
East Rutherford Savings, Loan and Trust 
Company, and its first president; president 
of the Passaic Lumber Company of Wall- 
ington; one of the incorporators, a director, 
and vice-president, of the Rutherford Na- 
tional Bank; one of the incorporators of 
The Hobart Trust Company, of Passaic, and 
its first president ; a member of the Board 
of Governors of the Passaic Hospital ; and 
in all of these offices his strong personality 
and great business ability were valuable 
assets. In later years Mr. McKenzie travel- 
ed abroad extensively, and cultivated his 
natural taste for good books, art, the drama 
and the opera. His fine home was "Brae- 
side," at Carlton Hill, New Jersey, a beauti- 
ful place on the hillside, overlooking the 
plant of the concern which he built up. He 
was a member of the Union Club, the Royal 
Arcanum, the Order of Scottish Clans, and 
of various trade associations. He gave 
freely of his time, his talents, his means, 
to his town and townsmen, measured up 
to all the requirements of good citizenship, 
and left behind him an honored name. 

Mr. McKenzie's sons are : James J., Wil- 
liam, Kenneth M. and Bertram D., and his 
daughter is Mrs. Harry W. Pierson, of 
Boston. The sons are also married. 



WHITNEY, Thomas H. and George D., 

Enterprising Manufacturers. 

Since 1807 the name Whitney has been 
identified with the glass manufacturing in- 
dustry of South Jersey, and at Glassboro, 
Gloucester county, the Whitney Glass 

319 



Works perpetuate the name in its relation 
to a great industry. The business, which 
was incorporated as the Whitney Glass 
Works in 1887, was founded in 1775 by the 
Stanger Brothers, Germans, who built and 
operated a small plant until 1780. They 
failed through the depreciation of the Con- 
tinental currency, and when sold by the 
sheriff the property was bought by Colonel 
Thomas Heston, of Hestonville, now a part 
of Philadelphia. Colonel Heston and Ed- 
ward Carpenter jointly made the purchase, 
enlarged the works, and began the manufac- 
ture of window glass, shipping their manu- 
facture to Philadelphia by flat-boat. In 
1802 Colonel Heston died, and in 1807 Cap- 
tain Eben Whitney, of Castine, Mnine, a 
master mariner, married Bathsheba, daugh- 
ter of Colonel Heston, and located in Glass- 
boro. Captain Eben Whitney was a >on of 
Samuel Whitney, descendant of Jo'm and 
Elinor Whitney, who with five son^ sailed 
from London, England, to Americ? - ,n the 
ship "Elizabeth and Ann," in 163^ They 
settled at Watertown, Massac' n-ettts, 
where John Whitney died, full o'' 'n.nors, 
June I, 1673, aged eighty-four yem -. Cap- 
tain Eben Whitney, master marin ■, while 
on a voyage from Madeira to Philadelphia, 
was wrecked off Cape May, New !■ rsey, in 
1806, and for several months 1' reafter 
was engaged in saving his cargo • •! in re- 
pairing his vessel. During this ■ "'(id he 
made many trips to Philadelphi- j'assing 
through Glassboro. He became a : ainted 
with Miss Heston, they were miit. -ally at- 
tracted, and on August 27, 1807, ■';->' were 
married in Philadelphia. Capt''in Eben 
Whitney then located in Glassbor i Cap- 
tain Eben Whitney was born ir I"!oston, 
Massachusetts, March 17, 1780, an ■ died in 
1823. His wife, Bathsheba Heston. lied in 
Glassboro, aged seventy-seven ye: ;s. and 
was buried in the churchyard the- She 
was the mother of three sons,— "Gliomas 
Heston, Eben, and Samuel A. W'iitney. 
Thomas H. and Samuel A. Whit- -v. be- 
coming permanently identified with t' <jlass 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



works their grandfather, Colonel Heston, 
aided in establishing, and they were con- 
nected with the works for nearly half a 
century. 

Thomas Heston Whitney in 1835 pur- 
chased a one-third interest in the business, 
and two years later acquired the entire 
works. He continued sole owner until 
1840, when he sold a half interest to his 
brother, Samuel A. Whitney. In 1842 the 
name was changed from the Harmony 
Glass Works to the Whitney Glass Com- 
pany. Thomas H. Whitney died in 1882, 
and Samuel A. Whitney having retired, 
John P. Whitney, eldest son of Thomas 
H., and a nephew, Thomas W. Synnot, 
continued the business as Whitney Broth- 
ers until 1887, when its magnitude became 
such that it was deemed wise to incorpor- 
ate. This was done under the name of the 
Whitney Glass Works, John P. Whitney 
being chosen vice-president and treasurer, 
and later president of the corporation. He 
was the active head of the works for near- 
ly twenty-five years, then resigned, and was 
succeeded by his brother, George Dudley 
Whitney. 

Thomas H. Whitney married Josephine 
Whitney, and resided in Glassboro until 
his death at the beautiful homestead "Hol- 
ly Bush." He was a man of great business 
abili'ty, and of deeply generous impulse 
and public spirit. To his sons he left the 
priceless legacy of an honored name, and 
to them committed the care of the business 
he had developed. Under John P. Whit- 
ney the business grew to large proportions, 
giving at one time employment to about 
one thousand operatives, and producing 
over six million bottles annually. Besides 
five furnaces at Glassboro, the company 
operated a plant at Salem, New Jersey, 
owned a plant at Blairsville, Pennsylvania, 
and a window glass plant at South Glass- 
boro. To the Whitneys belong the credit 
of introducing many improvements in 
glass manufacturing, the result of years of 
costly experiment, and it was largely 



through them that the recognized standard 
of efficiency in machine bottle blowing was 
reached. To the head of this great busi- 
ness George Dudley Whitney, a lawyer 
practicing in Philadelphia, was called upon 
the resignation of his brother, John P. 
Whitney, in 1907. While all his previous 
training had been professional, he relin- 
quished the position he had gained at the 
Philadelphia bar, and until his death faith- 
fully and capably administered the trust 
confided to him. He had inherited execu- 
tive ability from his honored father, Thom- 
as H. Whitney, whose whole life was de- 
voted to business, and in addition pos- 
sessed a clear, logical, well trained, judi- 
cial mind, strengthened by his college 
training and years of legal practice. His 
brothers, Thomas H., Samuel A., and Cut- 
ler Whitney, were associated with him, and 
now represent the Whitney name in the 
glass manufacturing business. A sister, 
Fannie, married Frank C. Hatch, of Bos- 
ton. 

George Dudley Whitney was born at 
"Holly Bush," the family homestead in 
Glassboro, March 22, 1872, and died Febru- 
ary 24, 19 1 5, youngest son of Thomas H. 
and Josephine (Whitney) Whitney. He 
passed through an extended course of pre- 
paratory study in the best schools, then en- 
tered Princeton University, whence he was 
graduated A. B., class of 1894. He then 
prepared for the legal profession, graduat- 
ing from the Columbia University of Wash- 
ington, D. C, was admitted to the bar, and 
began practice in Philadelphia, where he 
successfully established a lucrative business. 
After the resignation of his brother, John 
P. Whitney, from the presidency of the 
Whitney Glass Works, a position he had 
capably filled for nearly twenty-five years, 
George D. Whitney succeeded him as ex- 
ecutive head of the business that had been 
so long and so efficiently operated in the 
Whitney name. He gave up his legal prac- 
tice, and devoted all his energies to the 
management of the business. The blowing 



320 




/ 



1//^JV /ScLOA^V-^J^ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



of glass bottles has been an industry that 
has witnessed many changes, has passed 
through periods of great prosperity and cor- 
responding depression, but the Whitney 
works have steadily progressed and to the 
Whitney brothers the honor of the present 
high standard of excellence in machine bot- 
tle blowing is largely due. 

A Republican in politics, Mr. Whitney 
took deep interest in party success, serving 
for years on the executive committee of 
the Gloucester County Republican Central 
Committee. He never sought office, and 
when without his consent he was made a 
member of the county Board of Freeholders, 
he but served his term, then positively de- 
clined re-elections. He was a member of 
St. Thomas' Protestant Episcopal Church, 
a vestryman and treasurer. He was a mem- 
ber of the Union League, University and 
Princeton clubs, of Philadelphia, and in that 
city, as everywhere, was highly esteemed. 
He was a man of high character, cultured 
and literary in his tastes, a gentleman al- 
ways, courteous and companionable. He 
never married, but always maintained his 
residence in Glassboro, his home a beautiful 
country estate. 

The funeral of Mr. Whitney was largely 
attended, many Philadelphians being pres- 
ent to testify the love and respect they felt 
toward their dead friend. Reverend Charles 
Bratten Dubell, rector of St. Thomas', con- 
ducted the services, after which he was laid 
with his fathers in the family plot in the 
churchyard. St. Thomas" has ever been near 
and dear to the Whitney heart, an attrac- 
tive stone church edifice belonging to the 
parish in Glassboro having been erected 
by Thomas H. and Samuel A. Whitney 
many years ago. 



BARNETT, William Hall, 

Business Man, Ideal Citizen, 

William Hall Barnett, who for many 
years was identified with the financial and 
business world of Newark, and not less 

32 
II— 21 



closely with its religious and charitable 
interests, came to that city when but a year 
old, from which time until his death he 
made his home there. Growing up with it 
at the time of its largest development, he 
formed for himself a prominent place in its 
active life, and left behind him the name 
not only of a practical, successful man, but 
also of a philanthropist whose interest lay 
ever in the betterment of his city and the 
assistance of the more unfortunate among 
its inhabitants. 

Mr. Barnett was a native of South Car- 
olina, having been born on the twenty- 
seventh day of April, 1847, ™ the city of 
Columbia, in that state, the second of the 
three sons of James G. and Mary (Hen- 
drickson) Barnett. His brothers were 
David H. Barnett, of Columbia, South Car- 
olina, and James G. Barnett Jr., who was 
born in Newark after the family had come 
to that place, and still resides there. In 
1848, Mr. Barnett Sr. removed with 
his family from their southern home and 
settled in the New Jersey city, where he 
opened a clothing store and conducted it 
successfully for many years. It was here 
that William Hall Barnett received his ed- 
ucation, first at Dr. Pingrey's school, latdr 
at the school of Mr. Grant, and finally at 
the Newark Academy, from which he grad- 
uated in 1864. In that year, Mr. Barnett 
being then seventeen years of age, he 
joined with his father in the latter's flour- 
ishing trunk business, and here he re- 
mained ten years, or until 1874, when he 
formed a most successful partnership with 
Henry Elcox for the manufacture and sale 
of jewelry. But Mr. Barnett had not yet 
found his permanent berth in the mer- 
cantile world, and, at length, with T. J. 
Preston as partner, took up the linseed oil 
bvisiness, in which he was highly success- 
ful. In 1906, at the age of fifty-nine, he 
retired entirely from active participation 
in business life, and devoted himself to 
those charitable and religious interests 
which so claimed his attention. The Home 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



for the Friendless was for a long time a 
matter of special solicitude to him, and he 
served it in the capacity of trustee and up- 
on its building committee. He was a de- 
voted member of the Central Methodist 
Episcopal Church, and one of its trustees, 
as well as a trustee of the St. John's Col- 
ored Church. Besides all these activities, 
Mr. Barnett found time to engage in social 
and club life, and a number of organiza- 
tions, secret and otherwise, named him 
among their members. He belonged to 
Kane Lodge, No. 55, Free and Accepted 
Mason ; Damascus Commandery, Knights 
Templar ; Salaam Temple, the Scottish Rite 
bodies ; and was also a member of the Es- 
sex Club. 

Mr. Barnett was married to Miss Mary 
Wildin, a daughter of Captain Wildin, of 
Newark. She died in 1883, leaving him 
childless. Mr. Barnett's death occurred on 
January 16, 1913, and he left a considera- 
ble fortune consisting of real estate and a 
considerable quantity of stock in the Mur- 
phy Varnish Company. To the Central 
Methodist Church he made a four thou- 
sand dollar cash bequest. • 

The life of William Hall Barnett exem- 
plifies in many ways the idea of good citi- 
zenship, in that it displayed an active in- 
terest in so many and diverse affairs of 
the community of which he was a mem- 
ber. Private and public matters were alike 
deemed neither too insignificant nor too 
remote for the bestowal of his personal 
care and attention, and in both alike he 
gave to all that he undertook the best that 
was in him. 



BENTLEY, Peter (2nd), 

Lawyer, Corporation Counsel. 

Peter Bentley (2d), of Jersey City, son 
of Peter Bentley Sr., displayed in large de- 
gree the paternal characteristics, and was a 
lawyer of excellent attainments, and a 
marked capacity for large afifairs. He was 
born in Jersey City, December 5, 1845. He 



attended no public educational institution 
but received liberal instruction under the 
tutorship of the Rev. Mr. Van Cleck. From 
the outset he was marked for the law, by his 
own disposition and the paternal example, 
and he early engaged in preparation for his 
profession, in his father's office, and under 
his watchful care and solicitude. Mentally, 
he resembled his father in many respects, 
and it was said of him that few, if any, at- 
torneys of his day came to the bar so well 
grounded in legal knowledge, and concep- 
tion of its practical application. On being 
admitted to the bar he was at once received 
by his father as a partner, and was entrust- 
ed with the entire care of office business. Af- 
ter the death of his father he became senior 
member of the firm of Bentley & Harts- I 
home ; this partnership was dissolved in ' 
1886, and thereafter he practiced alone. 
While he added largely to his clientele, he 
retained his father's former clients, who 
held to him with well-reposed confidence. 
He frequently championed the cause of his 
neighbors as his father had done. In a no- 
table instance, he was the successful counsel 
in proceedings whereby the unjust water 
rents on vacant property and upon property 
where water privileges were not used, were 
set aside and made inoperative, effecting a 
great saving to ta.xpayers. Again, at the 
time of his death, he was counsel for citi- 
zens in the proceedings instituted to set aside 
the entire tax levy on the ground of gross 
inequality in its assessment. Mr. Bentley 
was conspicuously successful in safeguard- 
ing large corporate interests, to the avoid- 
ance of tedious and expensive litigation. He 
was leading counsel for the Lehigh Valley 
Railroad Company, and counsel for the 
Standard Oil Company, the Barber Asphalt 
Company of New York City, and the Prov- 
ident Institution for Savings and the Con- 
sumers' Gas Company, both of Jersey City, 
and he also rendered important professional 
service to the Pennsylvania Railroad Com- 
pany. 

Mr. Bentley married, November 3, 1869, 



322 



I 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Emma Parker, of Jersey City, daughter of 
Captain Robert Parker, the owner of Watts' 
Island, in Chesapeake Bay, which has been 
in the Parker family since its first occupa- 
tion in Colonial times. Children : Eleanor, 
born July 13, 1871, married Warren H. 
Dixon, son of the late Justice Dixon, of Jer- 
sey City; Emily, born December 5, 1872, 
married John H. Winans ; Peter (3d), bom 
February 6, 1874; Richard Parker, born 
September 25, 1875 ; John, born June 16, 
1879; Eugenie, born December 23, 1881 ; 
Parker, born June 16, 1884. Mr. Bentley 
died in Jersey City, April 30, 1888. 



LINDSLEY, James Harvey, 

Accomplished Architect. 

By the death of James Hervey Lindsley, 
late of East Orange, New Jersey, that town 
sustained an irreparable loss and was de- 
prived of the presence of one whom it had 
come to look upon as a guardian, benefactor 
and friend. He had fostered many benev- 
olent and charitable enterprises, was prom- 
inently connected with many affairs which 
pertained to the public welfare, was the pro- 
moter of business interests of farreaching 
effect in the commercial and financial activ- 
ity of the town, and especially in his chosen 
profession, architecture, had rendered no- 
table service. 

The Lindsley family is a very ancient one, 
and the name is variously spelled Linle, 
Linley, Linsley and Lindsley. It was origi- 
nally Linesley, and there is a town of that 
name in County Lancaster, England, where 
this family had their seat. The coat of 
arms is as follows: Sable, a lion rampant 
between eight crosses pattee fitchee argent. 
Crest : An arm in armour, embowed, hold- 
ing in the glove a sabre, all proper. 

The first record of the family in this 
country concerns John and Francis Linley, 
from whom all the Americans of this name 
are descended. These two bearers of the 
name emigrated from a place not far to the 
southwest of London, England, and settled 

323 



in the New Haven Colony about 1640. John 
Linley took the oath of fidelity to the 
New Haven Colony, July i, 1644, and his 
name and that of Francis Linley appear on 
the New Haven records of the following 
year in a suit for "damadges" as follows: 
"Stephen Medcalfe complayned that he was 
going into the house of John Linley, Fran- 
cis Linley, his brother, being in the house, 
told him he would sell him a gunne, the 
said Stephen asked him if it were a good 
one, he answered yea, as any was in the 
towne." The "gunne" proved defective as 
was shown by the result and the finding of 
the court. "The court considering the prem- 
ises, the great damadge Stephen Medcalfe 
had susteyned in the losse of his eye, wth 
the losse of his time and the great chardge 
of the cure, Mr. Pell affirming it was worth 
10^, ordered Francis Linley to pay to 
Stephen Medcalfe 20^, damadges." Bran- 
ford, formerly Totoket, was established as 
a plantation in 1644 and the names of John 
and Francis Linley appear on the records in 
1646. They were probably among the first 
planters. John remained at Branford, where 
he died, his children having settled "ancient 
Woodbury." Francis came with the first 
settlers to Newark, and his name appears 
among the forty additional settlers who 
signed the "Fundamental Agreement," June 
24, 1667. 

James Hervey Lindsley, son of Peter 
Lindsley, a well-known builder of Newark, 
New Jersey, was born in Newark, October 
26, 1835, and died August 19, 1899, at 
Mendham, New Jersey, where he was 
spending the summer. He was the recipi- 
ent of an excellent education acquired in the 
private school conducted by Rev. Hunt, and 
at other private institutions of learning, one 
of these being at Succasunna. From his 
early years he displayed an unusual amount 
of interest in and talent for the profession 
of architecture, and his ideas were both 
original and practical, as well as artistic. He 
studied this profession with the well known 
Mr. Hatfield, of New York, remaining the 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



associate of this gentleman for a number of 
years, then located in Newark, New Jersey, 
witli which city his business interests were 
identified until his death, with the exception 
of three years, during which he lived in 
Denver, Colorado. For many years he was 
the consulting architect of the old Board of 
Education of the city of Newark, and dur- 
ing the four years prior to his death held a 
similar position with the East Orange Board 
of Education, where his services were ap- 
preciated to the fullest extent, and under 
his able supervision the Eastern and Frank- 
lin schools were enlarged and reconstructed 
and thus changed into model school build- 
ings. The Dodd Street public school in 
East Orange is acknowledged to be one of 
the finest in the entire country. In political 
matters Mr. Lindsley was a stanch Republi- 
can, but was never desirous of holding pub- 
lic office, holding the opinion that he was 
best serving the interests of the community 
by concentrating his energies in the proper 
conduct of his professional work, and thus 
improving the city in this direction. He 
never, however, neglected to cast his vote 
in the interests of the Republican party, his 
first vote being given for General Fremont. 
He was very young when he joined the 
First Baptist Church, now Peddie Memor- 
ial, of Newark, and for a half a century he 
was an active and devoted worker in its in- 
terests. He was a member of the Newark 
Board of Trade; a life member of the New 
Jersey Historical Society; a counsellor of 
the Founders and Patriots of America, 
being a charter member of the New York 
Society; and a member of the Republican 
Club of East Orange. At the time of his 
death he was in office as vice-president of 
the New Jersey Society of Architects, and 
many of the finest residences, churches and 
schools of Newark and its vicinity were 
erected or remodeled by him. His own res- 
idence was at No. 440 William street, where 
his funeral services were held. 

Mr. Lindsley married (first) Eliza Agens 
Bruen, who died in 1881, a descendant of 



Obadiah Bruen, one of the old settlers of 
Newark. There were two sons born of 
this union : Frederick Bruen, a resident of 
California, and James Mortimer, a resident 
of St. Louis, Missouri. Mr. Lindsley mar- 
ried (second) Adele Halsted Dodd, a 
daughter of Stephen Horton and Letitia 
(Halsted) Dodd; granddaughter of Sam- 
uel Tyler Dodd; and whose line goes 
through Zebina, David, John, Daniel and 
Daniel. She was born on the original Dodd 
tract in East Orange, which consisted of 
more than five hundred acres of land, and 
on which six generations of the family had 
been born ; the present Dodd street of East 
Orange runs through this tract. The Hal- 
sted family is an old one of Long Island. 
Letitia (Halsted) Dodd, mother of Mrs. 
Lindsley, was a daughter of Abram Colyer 
and Mary A. (Wilson) Halsted; a great- 
grandmother of Mrs. Lindsley, Elizabeth 
Colyer, born June 10, 1771, at Jamaica, 
Long Island, married Philip Halsted. By 
this second marriage of Mr. Lindsley there 
was a daughter: Marion Halsted Lindsley, 
and he was survived by all of his children. 
Numerous were the resolutions adopted 
was a daughter, Marion Halsted Lindsley, 
the letters of condolence received by the 
bereaved family, and the public expres- 
sions of regret which appeared in the press. 
The limits of this article will not permit of 
their reproduction, but the following ex- 
tract from the "Peddie Memorial Church 
Journal" must be accorded a place : 

"Reference should be made to the loss sus- 
tained by this Church in the death of our Brother 
Mr. James H. Lindsley in August last. Mr. 
Lindsley has been a member of the Music Com- 
mittee for a number of years, and was specially- 
faithful in his attention to the duties in which 
he always took a keen and intelligent interest. 
It is not known by your Committee at what 
age our Brother departed this life, but in an 
obituary notice published at the time it was stated 
that 'he joined the First Baptist Church, now 
Peddie Memorial, at Newark, at a very early 
age and for fifty years was active and influential 
in all good and charitable work.' With the ex- 
ception of a short period following the change 



324 



4 





J- runs .'AsTancai /^i/J" • 



A 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



of his residence to Orange. New Jersey, all those 
years were passed in the fellowship of this 
Church, for which he had a deep and abiding 
affection. He was proud of its history, of its 
influence and of its membership ; and loved to 
speak of them all at the times when others who 
felt less intensely in these matters would have 
had nothing to say of Church life or of religious 
experiences. He was a gentle and humble Chris- 
tian man, of refined and artistic instincts, of a 
sweet and lovable disposition. To those whose 
privilege it was to know him intimately he was 
most winsome, and his friendship a precious 
treasure. Your Committee gratefully submits 
this tribute to the worth and service of our 
Brother in the hope that same may be made a 
part of the records of the Church." 



GOODBODY, Robert, 

Financier, Model Citizen. 

Robert Goodbody, a well known finan- 
cier of New York and New Jersey, was a 
man who lived up to the standard of char- 
acter set by a line of distinguished ances- 
tors, in the energy and probity of his con- 
duct in the management of the many im- 
portant interests entrusted to his care. His 
grandfather, James Perry, was a leading 
spirit in the construction of the first rail- 
road between Kitigston and Dublin. The 
careers of such men as Mr. Goodbody 
show the possibilities open to those who 
possess good business abilities, and the 
high integrity common alike to the good 
citizen and the good business man. His 
whole life was devoted to the highest and 
best, and all his endeavors were for the 
furtherance of those noble ideals he made 
the rule of his daily life. A nature of sing- 
ular sweetness, openness and sincerity, 
he probably never had an enemy. But any 
estimate of his character would be unjust 
that did not point to the natural ability 
and keen mental gifts which he improved 
by daily and hourly use. He succeeded 
better than the average business man be- 
cause he had a wider intellectual equip- 
ment than the ordinary business man. He 
had a profound knowledge of human na- 
ture, and his judgment was sound. 

325 



Robert Goodbody was born in Clara, 
Kings county, Ireland, July 25, 1850, and 
died April 13, 191 1. The schools in his 
natiVe town furnished his earlier educa- 
tion, and he then became a student at 
Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland, from 
which he was graduated in the class of 
1871 with the degree of Bachelor of Arts. 
Later the degree of Master of Arts was 
conferred upon him. He was graduated 
with honors, and a gold medal for excel- 
lence in mathematics was awarded him. 
After leaving college he took up the study 
of law, and passed the necessary examina- 
tion required to become a solicitor, but 
never engaged in legal practice. He or- 
ganized the firm of Goodbody & Webb, 
stock brokers of Dublin, and became a 
member of the Dublin Stock Exchange. 
This firm, of which he was senior partner, 
was successfully engaged in business for a 
number of years. 

In 1885 Mr. Goodbody came to America, 
and organized the firm of Goodbody, Glyn 
& Dow, in New York City, where they 
were brokers and general dealers in all kinds 
of securities and investments. They were 
members of the Stock Exchange, and Mr. 
Goodbody himself became a member of the 
Stock Exchange after he had become 
naturalized. In 1891 he was the founder of 
the firm of Goodbody & Company, which 
is still in existence at No. 80 Broadway, 
New York City. So deliberate, well-con- 
sidered and accurate were his methods of 
doing business, that he was successful in 
all his undertakings. In 1899, in associa- 
tion with several others, he purchased "The 
Paterson Guardian," and published this for 
some time. 

During the first few years of his stay in 
this country, Mr. Goodbody lived in Orange, 
New Jersey, but in 1889 he removed to his 
country seat on the outskirts of Haledon, 
New Jersey, where he was the owner of 
many fine acres of park land, covered with 
beautiful native trees. He was very fond of 
travel, made annual trips abroad, and as 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



he was a fine speaker, and possessed of 
rare descriptive power, his conversation on 
his travels was listened to with pleasure by 
all who were privileged to hear him. He 
was active in the political affairs of Passaic 
county, a Cleveland Democrat, and wielded 
a wide influence in Paterson and Haledon. 
While in England he was a Whig of the 
Calden type. His favorite form of recrea- 
tion was found in out-door sports, but social 
amusements also had an attraction for him. 
He was a member of the Hamilton Club, of 
Paterson; the New York Whist Club; the 
University Club of Dublin ; the Reform 
Club of London ; the New York Chamber 
of Commerce; the North Jersey Country 
Club, in which he was a member of the 
Board of Governors, and was at one time 
its president; and he helped to organize the 
Areola Country Club. His advice in public 
affairs was held in high esteem in Haledon, 
and he served at one time as a member of 
the school board. He was a fine historical 
scholar, probably the finest in the county, 
and a profound student of economics. His 
death, which was deeply and sincerely re- 
gretted, cast a gloom over the entire com- 
munity, and affected many circles in New 
York City, as well as in England and Ire- 
land, where he was well known and greatly 
beloved. The illness which was the cause of 
his death covered a period of two years, 
and was of a nervous character, probably 
brought on by his incessant mental activity. 
His religious affiliations were with the So- 
city of Friends. 

Mr. Goodbody married (first) in 1872, 
Isabelle Dora Pirn, who died in 1878. He 
married (second) in 1883, Amy Urwick. 
He married (third) in 1885, Margaret Jane 
Pirn, who survives him, and is living at the 
country place at Haledon. His children, 
who all survive him, are : Isabella S., Han- 
nah F., Marcus, Thomas P., William U., 
John L., Dora, Maurice F. T., Agnes E. 
and Robert. 



DANIELS, Thomas, 

Fonnder of an Important Bnsiness. 

In Burlington, New Jersey, one of the 
tangible works of the life of Thomas Dan- 
iels is a firmly founded and prosperous 
mercantile business, ownership of which 
made him at the time of his death one of 
the oldest merchants of this old New Jer- 
sey city. For forty years Mr. Daniels took 
part in the business life of his adopted city, 
and now, when death has made vacant the 
place he so long occupied, nothing but 
pleasure accompanies his memory, and 
those things which are spoken of him by 
his former associates are such as bring 
pride and joy to those who loved him and 
in return held his deepest affection. Known 
to all of Burlington's residents as the suc- 
cessful merchant, his connections with 
other phases of the city's life were no less 
strong, and he combined the qualities of 
the man of business, the churchman, the 
fraternity brother, and the upright citizen 
in a personality and character at once 
pleasing and strong. 

Descendant of English forbears and a 
native of England, Thomas Daniels came 
to the United States as a lad of six years, 
although he was a man of forty years of 
age when he took up his residence and 
founded his business in Burlington, a busi- 
ness which, after forty years under the 
management of its founder, is now contin- 
ued as the property of his son and daugh- 
ter, Thomas E. and Charlotte A. Daniels. 
The years of his mature life prior to his 
coming to Burlington were passed in 
Brooklyn, New York, New Brunswick and 
Newark, New Jersey, and Poughkeepsie, 
New York, and during this time he learned 
and followed the jeweler's art. But it was 
the four decades that he passed in Burl- 
ington that brought out the best of his 
abilities and talents in business, in church, 
and in service for others ; and it is in mem- 



326 




e^^ ^,pu^:^ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ory of a life that stood beyond the reproach 
of any, that typified high-minded citizen- 
ship, that was endowed with the virtues of 
true manhood, that this memoir is written. 

Son of Thomas and Charlotte (Heath) 
Daniels, Thomas Daniels was born in War- 
rington, England, February 28, 1835, and 
in 1841 accompanied his parents in their 
immigration to the United States. Thomas 
Daniels, senior, made New Brunswick, New 
Jersey, the family home, and there he en- 
gaged in milling, subsequently moving to 
Brooklyn, New York. Thomas, the son, 
first attended public school in New Bruns- 
wick, continuing his studies in the institu- 
tions of Brooklyn after the family resi- 
dence was changed to that place. His first 
employment was in a grocery store, and as 
a young man he learned the jeweler's call- 
ing, engaging in this line in Newark, New 
Jersey, and Poughkeepsie, New York. 

Coming to Burlington, New Jersey, about 
1869, Mr. Daniels ventured into a line with 
which he was unfamiliar, but in which he 
saw greater possibilities and opportunities 
than in the business that had formerly been 
his field of effort, opening a general mer- 
cantile establishment. This he developed 
along safe business lines, at the same time 
benefitting from his progressive tendencies, 
and for forty years occupied honorable po- 
sition as a leading merchant of the city, 
holding position at the head of a business 
based on principles of fairest dealing long 
held in the public confidence. The business 
that he founded is now continued by his son 
and daughter, Thomas E. and Charlotte A. 
Daniels, and under their management the 
establishment on High street is held strictly 
to the worthy standard set up by the elder 
Daniels. 

Mr. Daniels made his personal business 
his chief interest in material matters, al- 
though for twenty-three years he was su- 
perintendent of the Light and Power Com- 
pany, relinquishing this office when the 
plant and business of the local company was 
consolidated with the Public Service Cor- 

327 



poration. His political activity was con- 
fined to the intelligent and conscientious 
casting of his ballot for men and measures 
championing the right, and his principal 
public service was as a member of the drain- 
age commission, his several terms of mem- 
bership thereon totalling eighteen years. 
With St. Mary's Protestant Episcopal 
Church he was closely and actively affili- 
ated, and of this parish he was a devotea 
vestryman, giving abundantly of all that 
was his to its needs. He was also a member 
of St. Mary's Brotherhood, and long be- 
longed to the Knights of Pythias. To none 
of the citizens of Burlington would this 
brief record of the life of Thomas Daniels 
seem complete if mention were omitted of 
one of the chief pleasures of his active 
years, ice-boating. Before the physical 
handicaps of old age made such recreation 
impossible, each winter found him on the 
broad surface of the Delaware with one of 
his several swift yachts, often built by him- 
self, and in the manipulation of his speedy 
craft he was most adept. 

Thomas Daniels died in Burlington, 
March 4, 1915. The infirmities that came 
with his eighty years of age caused his re- 
tirement three years prior to his death, but 
he had remained in touch with the activ- 
ities of his city until his final summons 
came. His wide sympathy with his fellows, 
his readiness to overlook shortcomings 
and to extol virtues, and the straightfor- 
ward manhood of his own life were the at- 
tributes that won him the love, admiration, 
and respect of his fellows, and it is as the 
man who quietly and without pretension 
performed the duties that came to him 
that he lives in the hearts of his former 
friends and associates. 

Mr. Daniels married (first) Ellen Collins, 
who became the mother of his children, 
Thomas E. and Charlotte A. ; (second) 
Lottie Chambers ; (third) Eleanor Van 
Vleet, who bore him Emily W., who mar- 
ried Joseph R. Budd ; Ada, and Grosve- 
nor W. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



BUDD, Eckard P., 



Lawyer, Public Official. 

Belonging to Mount Holly, New Jersey, 
by ri'ght of residence, Eckard P. Budd was 
the possession of his party, his profession, 
and his State, by virtue of long, varied and 
valuable service to all, service discontinued 
only with the passing of life. It was both 
pleasure and privilege to know him well, 
and it is the same privilege, with the sol- 
emn touch lent by the keen sense of loss. 
in his death, to retell the story of his life. 
Some there are who knew him as a con- 
stant and loving friend, others as a devoted 
and able public servant. Some met him in 
the associations of lodge and society, oth- 
ers in the work of party and politics, some 
labored with him in the cares of business, 
others stood by him as he fought and won 
the legal battles that made him foremost 
in his profession, all appreciated that in 
association with him they knew a man 
who recognized the highest things in life, 
made them his aim, and who, in a life that 
could have held no more of useful efifort, 
ever stood in relations of kindliness and 
helpfulness to his fellow men. In the lit- 
tle over a quarter of a century of his legal 
career he rose to respected heights in his 
profession, the instruments of his rapid ad- 
vance a clear and firmly founded knowl- 
edge of the principles and precedents of 
jurisprudence, industry that never flagged, 
intellect of high order, and unusual foren- 
sic gifts. These were the qualities that 
placed him in the front rank of New Jer- 
sey's criminal lawyers. When the Demo- 
cratic party called him to responsible place 
in party councils, he enthusiastically took 
up his work, and in county and State la- 
bored diligently in its interests. He was 
preferred for important political place by 
public servants representative of both of 
the great parties, and gave of the best of 
his time and brain to Burlington county 
and New Jersey. In affairs purely of a 
local nature he occupied conspicuous po- 

328 



sition, and Mount Holly knew and loved 
him with the affection a community be- 
stows only upon him who has been tried 
by every test, who has stood all trial, who 
has proved himself worthy of all honor. 

Andrews Eckard Budd, M. D., father of 
Eckard P. Budd, was born in Woodbury, 
New Jersey, July 18, 1816, of Prussian 
parentage, his parents coming from their 
native land when young and settling in 
New Jersey. Andrews E. Budd was edu- 
cated in the public schools, Woodbury high 
school, and under the tutorship of Rever- 
end Blythe, pastor of the Presbyterian 
church, who taught him Latin. At the 
age of eighteen years he began teaching 
in Woodbury, and at the same time con- 
tinued his studies in higher English, math- 
ematics, and Latin. At the age of twenty- 
one years he began the study of medicine 
under Dr. Egbert, of Manayunk, Penn- 
sylvania, and later entered the Medical 
Department of the University of Pennsyl- 
vania, whence he was graduated M. D., 
class of 1842. He located in Vincentown, 
New Jersey, beginning practice on April 
23, 1842. About January i, 1845, he moved 
to Medford, in the same county (Burling- 
ton) and there continued in successful prac- 
tice for eighteen years. In 1863 he moved 
to Mount Holly, the county seat of Burl- 
ington, and there practiced until his death. 
He was well known and popular, ranking 
among the most able and successful practi- 
tioners of the county. He was a member 
of the District Medical Society of Burl- 
ington and of other leading medical socie- 
ties. He married, December 22, 1858, Har- 
riet Louisa, daughter of Asa Payson, of 
Woodstock, Connecticut. Wed August 
14, 1882. 

Eckard P. Budd was born in Medford, 
Burlington county, New Jersey, November 
3, 1861, died in Mount Holly, New Jersey, 
June I, 1912. In 1863 his parents moved 
from Medford to Mount Holly, and there 
his entire subsequent life was passed. He 
prepared in the public schools, then entered 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Princeton University, and after there com- 
pleting a classical course began the study of 
law in the office of that eminent jurist, 
Charles E. Hendrickson, of Mount Holly. 
He was admitted to the bar as an attorney 
in February, 1886, and at once began prac- 
tice in Mount Holly. In February, 1890, he 
was admitted a counsellor, and November 
29, 1898, to the Supreme Court of the 
United States, and to practice in all State 
and Federal courts of the district. He grew 
rapidly in public favor, and on April 7, 
1890, was appointed by Governor Abbett as 
Prosecutor of the Pleas for Burlington. 
This office he held for ten years, having 
been reappointed by Governor Werts on 
April 4, 1895. His two terms as prosecu- 
tor were marked by brilliant and conscien- 
tious work on behalf of the State, and 
added greatly to his standing as a criminal 
lawyer. Had he elected a political career 
instead of a professional one, he would have 
gone far, but while deeply interested in 
local and State affairs, he had no personal 
public ambitions and never accepted elective 
office save as a member of the Mount Holly 
Board of Education, and that but for one 
term. He continued in the prosecutor's of- 
fice until the State changed its political com- 
plexion, and then retired to a private prac- 
tice that grew in volume with each succeed- 
ing year. He loved his profession, was 
learned in its many and intricate windings, 
was skilful in their application to the cause 
in contention, but was straightforward in 
his methods, relying upon the strength of 
his presentation of his case and not upon 
chicanery or sharp legal practice for vic- 
tory. He was a valuable public official and 
a strong advocate for the cause he repre- 
sented as counsel. 

While not a public official save profes- 
sionally, Mr. Budd was one of the well 
known, strong men of the Democratic 
party in New Jersey, and one whose talents 
were freely drawn upon by the leaders. For 
many years he represented Burlington 
county on the Democratic State Commit- 
tee, and as a campaign speaker during gu- 

329 



bernatorial and presidential contests, he was 
in great demand, his speeches command- 
ing wide attention from the press of the 
State and nation, for he was noted far be- 
yond the confines of his own State. In 
190 1, at the Democratic State Convention, 
he was chosen as the orator to present 
the name of James M. Seymour to the 
convention as the nominee for Governor, 
his nominating speech carrying the con- 
vention by storm, and standing as one of 
the classics of political oratory. He ac- 
cepted an appointment by Governor Mur- 
phy, of opposite political faith, as member 
of the State Board of Assessors, serving 
from March 7, 1904, to March 7, 1908. In 
every position he was called upon to fill he 
served with ability and honor, winning the 
highest respect even of his opponents, 
while as a lawyer and advocate his stand- 
ing was among the leaders. 

His business relations were few bevond 
his profession, but at his death he was a 
director of the Camden and Burlington 
County Railroad Company and of the 
Farmers' Trust Company, of Mount Holly, 
also serving the latter as solicitor. He 
was a member of Good Intent Fire Com- 
pany, of Mount Holly, belonged to the 
Masonic order, and was a past exalted 
ruler of the Mount Holly Lodge of Elks, 
of which he was a charter member. He 
took a deep interest in all these bodies, in 
fact, his public spirit extended to every de- 
partment of Mount Holly's life and his 
charity was never appealed to in vain. 
Suffering and distress always touched his 
sympathetic nature, and instant were his 
efforts to relieve the sufferers. Every man 
was his brother, and it is no figure of 
speech to state that the whole community 
mourned his death. 

Mr. Budd married Eliza Esculene Bur- 
tis, daughter of P. Tallman and Sarah 
Eliza Burtis, of Chicago, Illinois, and 
Phoenix, Arizona, who survives him, a res- 
ident of Mount Holly. Children : Harold 
Hume, Dorothy, Grace Esculene, Mildred 
and Eckard P. (2). 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



HOLDEN, Edgar, M. D., 

Naval Surgeon, Distingnished Practitioner 

For forty years president of the medical 
board of one of Newark's well-known life 
insurance companies, and one of the leading 
specialists of his day, Dr. Holden occupied 
an enviable position in the medical profes- 
sion. He was of early Colonial ancestry, 
descending from Justinian Holden, who 
came from England in 1632 in the ship 
"Elizabeth." His grandfather, John Hol- 
den, was an officer of the Revolution, pro- 
moted for gallantry at the battle of Bunker 
Hill, and was one of the original members 
of the Society of the Cincinnati, Dr. Hol- 
den inheriting his membership. Dr. Holden 
was a man of great ability and prominence 
in his own right, his services to his country 
and to his fellowmen in both war and 
peace bringing him merited distinction. 

Edgar Holden was born in Hingham, 
Massachusetts, November 2, 1838, died in 
Chatham, New Jersey, his summer home, 
July 18, 1909, son of Asa Holden, a manu- 
facturer of Hingham. He was early edu- 
cated in Hingham Academy and James 
Hunter's school at Jamaica, Long Island, 
prepared for college at John F. Pingry's 
school in Newark, and was graduated from 
Princeton College, A. B., class of 1859. In 
later years Princeton conferred upon him 
the degree of Master of Arts and Doctor of 
Philosophy. After leaving Princeton he 
entered the College of Physicians and Sur- 
geons of New York City, whence he was 
graduated M. D., class of 1861. Both be- 
fore and after graduation he served as in- 
terne at the King's County Hospital, gain- 
ing experience that was shortly afterward 
of value to him. 

In the fall of 1861 he was commissioned 
in the L^^nited States navy, and was assigned 
to duty on the steam frigate "Minnesota" 
as assistant surgeon, and on this vessel 
passed through the exciting scenes at 
Hampton Roads, where the entire LTnion 
fleet was in peril from the "Merrimac" until 



the arrival of the "Monitor." The "Min- 
nesota" was saved, and after the conflict 
Dr. Holden was placed in charge of the 
wounded who had fought on board the 
"Cumberland," "Congress" and "Minne- 
sota." At the bombardment of Sewell's 
Point he rendered such efficient service that 
he was promoted to surgeon in charge of 
the James River Squadron Hospital at Nor- 
folk. Later he served on the steamer "Wy- 
andotte," and later as surgeon of the iron- 
clad "Passaic," and took part in the attack 
on Fort McAllister, Georgia. Following, 
he was again assigned to hospital duty, but 
at his own request was appointed surgeon 
of the steamer "Sassacus," which vessel 
after sea service cruising for blockade run- 
ners was on duty in the South Carolina 
sounds, took part in the attack on Charles- 
ton, and fought the Confederate ram "Al- 
bermarle," with others of the L^nion fleet. 
In the summer of 1864 Dr. Holden was 
made chief of the medical department of 
the James River Squadron, but poor health 
caused him to resign after a few months' 
service. He, however, accepted a commis- 
sion as surgeon in the United States volun- 
teer army, becoming a member of the staff 
of the Ward Hospital, Newark. 

At the close of the war, Dr. Holden es- 
tablished and practiced in Newark and rose 
to a leading position as one of the great 
physicians and surgeons of the State. In 
1867 he became a member of the board of 
medical directors of the Mutual Benefit 
Life Insurance Company, and was elected 
president of the board in 1870, a position 
he held tmtil his death. He continued prac- 
tice in connection with his official duties 
until i8gi, when he withdrew from public 
practice, his health giving way under the 
double strain. Dr. Holden was an acknowl- 
edged authorit)' in his profession on lar- 
yngology, a department in which he spec- 
ialized. In the course of his studies and 
practice as a specialist he invented numer- 
ous instruments that were quickly adopted 
as being a great step forward and of im- 



330 




7^' 



-J^/t^^. 



^^^ 



I 



I 

4 



I 





y^ilH^ kA(i£^'^ 



I 
i 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



mense benefit to the advanced surgeon. He 
was a frequent contributor to the medical 
journals and magazines, his chief thesis on 
Sphygmograph taking the Stevens prize 
awarded by the College of Physicians and 
Surgeons, and later appearing in book form. 
At the time of his death Dr. Holden was 
president of the American Medical Associ- 
ation, member of the American Laryngo- 
logical Association, New Jersey State Med- 
ical Society, Newark Medical and Surgical 
Society, Essex County Medical Society, 
New Jersey Academy of Medicine, Associ- 
ation of Medical Directors of Life Insur- 
ance Companies ; hereditary member of the 
Society of the Cincinnati ; original member 
of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion, 
and of the Grand Army of the Republic ; 
member of the New Jersey Historical Soci- 
ety, the Microscopical Society, and the 
American Authors Guild. He was a volun- 
teer writer for the medical journals and 
magazines, his statistical papers and mono- 
graphs on contagion, sanitation and medical 
examinations for life insurance, attracting 
the attention of the medical world. He also 
wrote a series of war sketches for "Har- 
per's" and the "Century." In 1873 h^ Pub- 
lished his book on "The Use of the Sphyg- 
mograph ;" in 1880, "Health and Mortality 
of Newark;" and in 1883 "The Waif from 
Minot's Ledge." He was a Republican in 
politics, and a member of the Presbyterian 
church, serving for many years as trustee 
of the Second Presbyterian Church of New- 
ark. In February, 1908, he resigned, but 
the board refused for the second time to 
accept and allow their long-time associate 
to sunder official relations with the church. 



KALISCH, Rev. Isidor, D. D., 

Distingniisbed Divine, Author and Poet. 

Rev. Isidor Kalisch, D. D., one of the 
most distinguished rabbis of his time, was 
born in Krotoschin, Duchy of Posen, Prus- 
sia, November 15, 1816, and died in New- 
ark, New Jersey, May 11, 1886. He was a 

33 



son of the Rev. Burnham and Sarah Kal- 
isch, the latter a woman of strong intellect 
and force of character, who died March 14, 
1883, at the age of eighty-seven years. Rev. 
Burnham Kalisch "was widely known 
throughout the Duchy as a man of learning, 
piety and benevolence," and he "was deeply 
versed in Hebraic lore." He died in Kro- 
toschin, September i, 1856, leaving seven 
children. 

Rev. Isidor Kalisch, the eldest of these 
children, became even more illustrious than 
his father, receiving international recogni- 
tion through his public labors and his pub- 
lished works. His earliest years already 
gave promise of what he would achieve in 
later life, and "in his ninth year he was re- 
markably proficient in Talmudic and He- 
braic learning." LTpon the completion of 
the curriculum at the Gymnasium, an in- 
stitution on a par with our American col- 
leges, he pursued his studies in the univer- 
sities of Berlin, Breslau and Prague, the 
most eminent professors conferring testi- 
monials upon him. During this time he 
was a steady contributor to leading German 
periodicals, notable among these being the 
"Breslauer Beobachter," the "Figaro," and 
Dr. Julius Fuerst's "Orient." He was the 
author of one of the most popular songs of 
that warlike period in Germany — "Schlacht 
Gesang der Deutschen (War Song of the 
Germans) — which was dedicated to the 
Prince of Prussia (afterwards Emperor of 
Germany), December 31, 1842, and ac- 
knowledged by that prince in a personal 
note to Dr. Kalisch. Tbe song was set to 
music by Music Director Mueller, of Bres- 
lau, and at once became the fashion. The 
attitude of Dr. Kalisch has been thus char- 
acterized : 

"Imbued with the love of liberty, and witness- 
ing the oppression of his fellow men under the 
forms of government and law, his generous na- 
ture decried these things ; he wrote poems breath- 
ing the true spirit of liberty; contributed articles 
to newspapers which were condemned as seditious 
by tyrannical censors ; and thus when, in 1848, 
the revolutionary fever had reached a crisis, he 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



became one of the many obnoxious citizens who 
were inimical to the welfare of Prussia because 
they were stumbling blocks to the progress of 
tyranny and oppression. He was compelled to 
leave Germany. He made his way to London, 
England, and after a sojourn there of several 
months, he left for New York City." 

After an ocean trip in the sailing vessel 
"Rolla," lasting almost nine weeks, he ar- 
rived in New York City on August 28, 
1849, and in July, 1850, received a call from 
the congregation "Tifireth Israel" of Cleve- 
land, Ohio, to officiate as their minister. In 
the same month he assumed the duties of 
this position, finding his congregation of the 
true orthodox type, that is, they still upheld 
obsolete rites which were practically useless 
in that time and under those conditions, 
however wise they might have been, and 
undoubtedly were, at the time they were 
put in force. How to remedy this evil was 
now his constant thought. The result of 
his efforts in this direction was the assemb- 
ling of the first conference of rabbis at 
Cleveland, in 1855. The object of this con- 
ference was to better the spiritual condition 
of the Jews throughout America ; to strip 
the Jewish divine services from heathenish 
and idolatrous customs ; to weed out sense- 
less and useless prayers ; and to establish a 
uniform divine service throughout the land. 
In order to spread this movement he had 
himself frequently removed from one con- 
gregation and city to another, and served in 
cities as follows: Cincinnati, Ohio; Mil- 
waukee, Wisconsin, in which city he was 
successful in uniting two disputing factions, 
and had them united in worship in one syn- 
agogue ; Indianapolis, Indiana ; Detroit, 
Michigan ; Leavenworth, Kansas. In Octo- 
ber, 1868. Dr. Kalisch removed to New 
York City for the purjwse of publishing a 
translation he had made of Lessing's 
"Nathan der Weise," and while there 
opened an educational institution on West 
Thirty-sixth street. He was obliged to aban- 
don this at the end of a year, as he had re- 
ceived no support in his undertaking, and 
having lost all his earnings in this enter- 

332 



prise, he was compelled to enter the lecture 
field in order to support himself and his 
family. While thus engaged he received a 
call to the B'nai Abraham congregation of 
Newark, New Jersey, which he accepted. 
In August, 1872, he left it in order to accept 
the position of rabbi and preacher with the 
congregation "Ohavey Scholom," in Nash- 
ville, Tennessee, where he remained three 
years. He was instrumental in having a 
synagogue erected, and at the laying of the 
corner stone of this edifice ex-President 
Andrew Johnson and the Governor and 
State officials of Tennessee were present. 
In September, 1875, Dr. Kalisch returned 
to Newark, where he devoted himself 
mainly to the lecture field and literary work. 
His close application to literary labors re- 
sulted in the most serious consequences. His 
health began to fail rapidly in the winter of 
1885, and he realized the fact that his 
earthly career would soon be closed. In 
spite of periods of intense suft'ering, he was 
never heard to complain and always sought 
to inspire hope and confidence in those about 
him. His death created a profound feeling 
of grief and sorrow in the community in 
which he lived, and in every community 
where his excellent qualities were known. 
Outside of a very valuable library Dr. Kal- ■ 
isch left no worldly goods, but he left a far 
richer treasure than wealth, an untarnished 
name and enviable fame. We may say of 
Dr. Kalisch, in the language of the poet : 

"We live in deeds, not years; in thoughts, not 

breaths ; 
In feelings, not in figures on a dial. 
We should count time by heart throbs. He most 

lives 
Who thinks most, feels the noblest, acts the best. 
And he whose heart beats quickest lives the 

longest, 
Lives in an hour more than in years do some 
Whose fat blood sleeps as it Slips along the veins. 
Life is but a means unto an end ; that end, 
Beginning, mean, and end to all things, God." 

Dr. Kalisch was connected with numer- 
ous organizations, among them being the 
following; Oriental Lodge, No. 51, Free 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



and Accepted Masons of Newark ; Deutsche 
Morgenlaendische Gesellschaft (German 
Oriental Literary Society), of Leipzig and 
Halle ; Mendelssohn Verein, Frankfort-on- 
the-Main ; Allgemeiner Deutscher Schrift- 
steller Verband (German Authors" Union), 
at Leipzig. 

As a profound scholar, philologist, and 
prolific author, Dr. Kalisch must always re- 
main best known to the learned world. He 
wrote numerous essays on religious and sec- 
ular subjects, maintained and carried on ex- 
tensive religious controversies in the Jewish 
press, both aggressive and defensive, with 
the orthodox and ultra-reform elements in 
Judaism, and wrote poems which appeared 
at frequent intervals in German newspapers 
and periodicals. His lecture on the "Source 
of all Civilization'' attracted wide attention, 
and was reviewed by James Parton in the 
"Atlantic Monthly" of August, 1867; an- 
other, on "Ancient and Modern Judaism," 
was not less notable ; while still others of 
note were on "Divine Providence," "The 
Origin of Language and the Great Future 
of the English Tongue," "Jewish Ethics" 
and "The Life and Works of Moses Maim- 
onides." He contributed a series of articles 
on the Talmud, "The Wine of the Bible," 
"All Christians Astray on Baptism" and 
kindred topics to the "Christian Union," of 
which Henry Ward Beecher was then edi- 
tor; and in various periodicals of the coun- 
try he published such essays as "Origin of 
the Doctrine of Demons and Evil Spirits, 
Taught by Judaism and Christianity, illus- 
trated ;" "Opinions on the Value of the Tal- 
mud by the Most Learned Theologians;" 
"On the Sphere of Our Activities as Israel- 
ites ;" "The Old Biblical Doctrine of the 
Idea of God ;" "On The Science of Educa- 
tion ;" also critical biographies of Moses 
Maimonides and Haftaly Hartewid Wesely. 
His "Wegweiser fuer rationelle Forschun- 
gen in den Biblischen Schriften," published 
in 1853, received flattering notices from the 
German, English and French press. In this 
profound work he contends upon the basis 



of a critical examination of the New Testa- 
ment Scriptures that all that is distinctive in 
Christianity is derived from Judaic doc- 
trines and customs. In 1855, at the solicita- 
tion of Professor Gibbs, of Yale College, 
Dr. Kalisch deciphered the Phoenician in- 
scription found at Sidon, Asia. His render- 
ing was read before the London Syro-Egyp- 
tian Society, and published in the transac- 
tions of that society as preferable to the 
translations submitted about the same time 
by the Due de Luynes, of Paris, E. C. Die- 
trich, of Marburg, Germany, and W. M. W. 
Turner. Dr. Kalisch published a splendid 
English translation of Lessing's "Nathan 
der Weise," as mentioned previously, and 
rendered the same service for the "Sepher 
Yezireh," the first philosophical book ever 
written in the Hebrew language. In con- 
nection with this last he also issued a 
"Sketch of the Talmud," in which he sum- 
marized the results of fifty years of study. 
He wrote Hebrew as readily as German, 
and as fluently. 

In addition to his rare learning and ability 
as a prose writer, he was a poet of unusual 
merit. In 1865 his German poems, up to 
that date, were collected in a volume entitled 
"Toene des Morgenlandes" (Sounds of the 
Orient). Such gems in this volume as "Die 
Mystische Harfe." "Der Teufelstein," and 
"Gesicht der Seele," are unsurpassed of 
their kind. Of his Hebrew hymns, many 
are to be found in the Reformed Hebrew 
Prayer Book. Another poem in Hebrew, 
read before the Qeveland Conference, has 
been pronounced a masterpiece. We learn 
that "after his death, among his manuscripts 
was found a considerable collection of orig- 
inal Hebrew poems, tales and fables, and 
translations from German and English 
poets into Hebrew, which have never found 
their way into print." Among his other 
published writings may be mentioned his 
contributions to Talmudic Lexicography in 
the London "Jewish Chronicle" and "He- 
brew Observer," and in the Juedische Lit- 
eratur Blatt, of Magdeburg, Germany; Eng- 



333 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



lish sermons, which appeared in the "Jewish 
Messenger," on "Timely Words," and on 
"Excellence of Judaism ;" a series of "Exe- 
getical Lectures on the Bible," in "The 
Occident," Philadelphia; a series of "Con- 
tributions on Philosophical Literature," in 
"The American Israelite;" "Prefatory Re- 
marks to the Book of Esther;" "The Book 
of Antiochus," translated from the Hebrew ; 
"A Disquisition Concerning the Time of 
Composing the Accents of the Hebrew;" 
"Hebrew Literature and Proselytism ac- 
cording to the Biblical Talmudical Laws;" 
"Discourse on the Preference of the 
Mosaic Laws," as delivered by Rabbi Moses 
ben Nacham, in 1263, before King Jacob, at 
Saragossa ; "Contributions to the Jewish 
Liturgy ;" "Historical Researches — Who 
Was Tryphon, mentioned by Justin the 
Martyr," etc. ; "Disquisition on Some Lit- 
urgical Subjects;" "The Value of the He- 
brew Language;" "Real Treasure of 
Earth ;" "The Jewish Minister as He Should 
Be." 

Rev. Dr. Kalisch was married, at Jut- 
roschin. Duchy of Posen, in 1843, to Char- 
lotte, a daughter of Abner and Bettina 
Bandman, and this union was blessed with 
children as follows : Albert, born Septem- 
ber 15, 1844; Hannah, born April 10, 1846, 
married Simon Wiener ; Leonard, born 
April 12, 1848; Samuel, born April 18, 
1851 ; Abner, born September 2, 1853; 
Burnham, born August 5. 1867. Albert be- 
came a journalist ; the other sons all became 
eminent lawyers. 

The death of Dr. Kalisch cast a deep sor- 
row over the entire city, a sorrow which 
was by no means confined to his co-relig- 
ionists, for, whenever there was distress to 
be relieved, a difference in religious belief 
never affected the aid freely and generously 
given by him. The funeral services were 
attended by members of all creeds, by high 
and low, by rich and poor. The funeral 
oration was delivered by the venerable Dr. 
Gustav Gottheil, the eminent divine of 
Temple Emanuel, of New York City ; a 



prayer by the Rev. Joseph Leucht, of the 
Congregation B'nai Jeshurun, of Newark; 
and resolutions of condolence were adopted 
by the Society of "Der Treuen Schwestern," 
(The Faithful Sisters), of Milwaukee, Wis- 
consin, an organization which had been 
called into life by Dr. Kalisch. We can 
give no better estimate of the character of 
Dr. Kalisch than to quote a few extracts 
from a "Memoir" which was published of 
him in Newark. 

One paramount aim seems to run through all 
his writings and labors, that of mental and 
moral improvement. When it is considered how 
unprofitable, in a financial sense, such labors are, 
in a busy world wholly devoted to racing after 
wealth, one cannot but admire the nobleness, 
unselfishness, and self-sacrificing character of the 
subject of this memoir. Who is there skillful 
enough to wield the pen, to do justice to the 
memory of a man who despised wealth, and 
sacrificed all the years of an active life in 
attempting to better the moral and mental condi- 
tion of his fellow men? Who is there possessed 
of sufficient eloquence to do justice to the mem- 
ory of a man who wilfully and manfully put 
on the armor of truth and justice, not merely 
in a state of defense, but in an aggressive state, 
to carry on a life-long war with falsehood, 
hypocrisy, deceit, fanaticism, bigotry and super- 
stition, a war in which no flag of truce was 
recognized, no quarter given, and no blood 
spilled — a war of reason against blind faith and 
sophistry? 

Who is there adequate to the task of faithfully 
portraying the character of a man, whose life was 
devoid of every selfish thought, whose soul was 
enwrapt in the welfare of others, whose greatest 
liappiness was to observe others happy, and whose 
greatest triumph was to see truth, justice, virtue 
and enlightenment, triumph over falsehood, op- 
pression, vice and bigotry? Dependent upon 
his vocation and literary labors for his liveli- 
hood, and with a family dependent upon him, 
he rather struggled for existence, than to sacri- 
fice his opinions and resort to dissimulation. 
He did not seek after wealth, but that which 
was dearer to him, the establishment of a Judaism 
which would be impregnable to the insidious 
attacks of scoffers and atheists. He was a man 
of original thought. He took great delight in 
grappling with abstruse questions of mental and 
moral philosophy, theology, or any other subject 
which called for the vigorous exercise of his 
strong intellectual faculties. His power of analy- 



334 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



sis was so strongly developed, that a subject fell 
apart, as it were, into many pieces, with mathe- 
matical exactness and evenness under his keen 
dissection, and not the smallest particle thereof 
escaped his mental grasp, until it fully revealed 
its integral existence and relation to the whole. 
He furthermore possessed the happy faculty of 
investing the most intricate subject in a simple 
garb, so that it could be readily understood by 
the common mind. A strong sense of right and 
justice pervaded all his actions through life. So 
strongly was he imbued with this quality, that it 
produced in him an uncontrollable aversion to- 
wards dissemblers and pretenders, and which 
his open and ingenuous nature was powerless 
to conceal. In the presence of such, his usual 
calm and even temperament, his urbane and 
genial manner, would become uneasy, ruffled and 
repelling. 

His charities were numerous, and no solicita- 
tion to him for alms ever went unanswered. 
He heeded no exertion, shunned no fatigue, when 
bent upon a mission of mercy or charity. He 
will be affectionately remembered by the many 
who have been cheered upon their lonely and 
desolate way through life, by the substantial 
aid received from his kind and helping hand. 
The result of his labors testifies to the efficiency 
of his work. In the family circle he was per- 
petual sunshine. He was all love, patience and 
generosity. He was a kind and devoted husband, 
a loving and affectionate father, and a steadfast 
friend. To him the approach of death was only 
the beginning of that spiritual life, which was the 
theme of his earnest life work. 



DURYEE, Peter Sharpe, 

Enterprising Citizen, Friend of Education. 

There are some men whose natures are so 
large, who touch life at so many points, that 
in whatever communities they may reside, 
they exert an influence widely and power- 
fully felt. To this class of men belonged 
the late Peter Sharpe Duryee, late of New- 
ark, New Jersey, a representative of an old 
family, whose ancestors were Dutch and 
Huguenot settlers at Newtown, Long Island. 
The parents of Mr. Duryee were George 
and Mary (Sharpe) Duryee. 

Peter Sharpe Duryee was born at the 
comer of Fulton and Gold streets. New 
York City, December 21, 1807, and died at 

335 



his home, No. 40 Park Place, Newark, New 
Jersey, September 23, 1877. He received 
an excellent education in private schools 
near the country residence of his father at 
Newtown, Long Island, and was still a very 
young man when he decided to enter upon a 
business career. He removed to Newark in 
1821, and became an apprentice in the store 
of the late William Rankin, hat manufac- 
turer. Devoting himself wholeheartedly to 
the interests of the business with which he 
had become connected, his fidelity and 
worth were recognized, and at the age of 
twenty-one years he was admitted to a part- 
nership in the firm. The firm was operated 
under the name of Rankin, Duryee & Com- 
pany, and the progressive yet conservative 
methods of Mr. Duryee raised this enter- 
prise to such an extent that it became the 
largest concern of its kind in the country. 
They had established branches in almost all 
the large cities of the L^nion until the out- 
break of the Civil War, at which time the 
firm retired from business. Mr. Duryee was 
associated with a number of other business 
enterprises and held official position in many 
of them. He was a director and vice-presi- 
dent of the State Bank of New Jersey and 
director of the Newark Savings Bank, New 
Jersey Insurance Company and the Me- 
chanics Insurance Company. He was ac- 
tively interested in the New Jersey railroad, 
having been one of the original stockholders, 
and had charge of a number of its interests. 
He was also president of the Mount Pleas- 
ant Cemetery Association. 

Generously interested in the cause of 
higher education, he was a trustee of Rut- 
gers College at New Brunswick, and 
founded several scholarships there. He was 
one of the original directors of the Library 
Association, and vice-president of the New 
Jersey Historical Society. He was for many 
years a member of the First Reformed 
Church, on Market street, leaving this to 
establish the North Reformed Church, of 
which he was an elder at the time of his 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



death, and always a liberal supporter. He 
was also a trustee of the Corporation of the 
Reformed Church in America. 

Mr. Duryee married, in Newark, June 
20, 1834, Susan, a daughter of William and 
Abigail (Ogden) Rankin, the former being 
the partner of Mr. Duryee. Of this union 
there were children : William Rankin, who 
became pastor of the Reformed Qiurch at 
Lafayette ; Anne Brower ; Mary Ogden ; 
John Coble; Charlotte Rankin; George 
Sharpe ; Joseph Rankin ; Edward Henry ; 
Amy Caroline. 

In order to give an estimate of the char- 
acter of Mr. Duryee, we can do no better 
than to quote a few extracts from the ser- 
mon preached in his memory by the Rev. C. 
E. Hart: 

"There was great unity in his character. He 
was a practical man of great and ceaseless 
activity. Mr. Duryee kept at what engaged his 
mind, and worked with intense enthusiasm to its 
results. To the spirit and vivacity of the 
Huguenot he added the settled purpose of the 
Hollander, and showed in his career the value 
of such a combination. His life shows the value 
of singleness of aim in the application of one's 
energies. It is the secret of growth. Such a 
course is constructive. It is the foundation of 
a name and a character. This practical man had 
what is not often found in such natures, an 
ardent temperament. He was a man of strong 
affection and sentiment, as evinced in his great 
fondness for the poetry of Burns and the 
romances of Scott." 



DURYEE, Rev. William Rankin, D. D., 

Distinguished Clergyman and Edncator. 

That the influence of the church is declin- 



ing, is a remark frequently made by those 
who lack the discernment to perceive that, 
while creeds and outward observances are 
undoubtedly losing their hold upon the 
world at large, there is convincing evidence 
that the essentials of religion are daily be- 
coming more deeply rooted in the heart of 
mankind. When the representatives of the 
church are such men as the late Rev. Wil- 
liam Rankin Duryee, D. D., a professor in 

336 



Rutgers College, New Jersey, its influence 
becomes exercised in the most beneficial 
manner and in the highest degree. He was 
the eldest son of the late Peter S. Duryee, 
whose sketch appears also in this work. 

Rev. William Rankin Duryee, D. D., was 
born in Newark, New Jersey, in 1838, and 
died at his home in New Brunswick, New 
Jersey, January 20, 1897. He was gradu- 
ated in the class of 1856 from Rutgers Col- 
lege, and for a time devoted himself to the 
study of law in the office of Frederick T. 
Frelinghuysen. In less than a year he had 
decided to make the ministry his life work, 
and accordingly, in the fall of 1857, matric- 
ulated at the Theological Seminary in New 
Brunswick, but interrupted his studies at 
the end of his junior year in order to spend 
one and a half years in European travel. 
Returning to the seminary, he was gradu- 
ated from this institution in 1861. He was 
at once appointed chaplain of the First Ken- 
tucky Infantry, but a severe attack of camp 
fever obliged him to abandon his field ac- 
tivity. In 1863, having fully recovered, he 
assumed charge of a mission at East Wil- 
liamsburg, Long Island, and the following 
year was appointed pastor of the newly or- 
ganized Lafayette Church of Jersey City, 
New Jersey. He developed this into a 
strong church during the twenty-seven years 
it remained in his charge, and while the con- 
gregation was in a great part a transient 
one, he won their confidence and love m an 
eminent degree. He had a number of calls 
to other fields, but the love of his congrega- 
tion prevailed over all offered inducements 
to leave them. In 1876 Rutgers gave him a 
Doctorate of Divinity, and upon the death 
of his father, in 1877, he was chosen to suc- 
ceed him as a member of the board of trus- 
tees, and held this post until he accepted a 
professorship. In 1891 he was elected Pro- 
fessor of Ethics, Evidences of Christianity 
and the English Bible, in Rutgers College, 
and he accepted this as being in harmony 
with his chosen life work, although he had 
previously declined the chair of History 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



and Political Economy in the same institu- 
tion. 

From the commencement of his minis- 
terial life he had been an active member of 
the Board of Foreign Missions, and it is im- 
possible to measure the extent and value of 
his services in this direction. He was pres- 
ident of the General Synod in session at Al- 
bany in 1883. As a reformer Rev. Duryee 
held high rank. As an orator he had few 
equals in his circle, not alone as a speaker 
upon religious topics, but as a speaker on 
any subject, social, educational or literary 
in its nature, it was always a great pleasure 
to be one in his audience. His contributions 
to the world of literature were numerous, 
and for the most part appeared in "The 
Christian Intelligencer." Published in "The 
Hearth and Home" was a prize poem by 
Rev. Duryee, and this was later included in 
Bryant's "Library of Poetry and Song." 
He wrote a number of hymns which have 
been published in collected form, a variety 
of tracts and addresses, and many reviews 
of books and church and religious topics, 
mainly for "The Christian Intelligencer." 

Rev. Duryee married (first) in Jersey 
City, Charlotte W. Nuttman, of Newark, 
until her death treasurer of the Woman's 
Board of Foreign Missions, and in whose 
honor the Charlotte W. Duryee School for 
Women, in connection with the Amoy Alis- 
sion, was created. He married (second) 
Mrs. Anna M. R. (Varick) Goesbeck, of 
Jersey City, who was until her resignation 
treasurer of the Women's Executive Com- 
mittee of Domestic Missions. It is but a 
fitting close to this short review to give a 
few extracts from addresses made in mem- 
ory of Rev. Duryee by those who knew him 
or his works intimately, and are therefore 
best able to estimate his worth. 

President Scott, of Rutgers College, said, 
in part : "But it is the students, I suppose, 
who will claim him as all their own. Each 
one of them recognized in him a 'fellow' 
and a friend. His heart kept even pulse with 
theirs. When, in the excitement of their 

337 

11—22 



sports, or in their jollity their heartbeats 
were hurried, his never lost a throb. When 
their aspirations were quickened as the pos- 
sibilities of a noble life filled them with high 
hopes, his breath came and went as fast as 
theirs. And when the time came for sym- 
pathy or counsel, no wonder, therefore, that 
the heart of the comrade, older in years 
only, gave the steadying measure for 
thought and purpose. To every student he 
stretched out his hand, not to keep him at 
arm's length, but to draw him close to him- 
self." 

Rev. Charles E. Hart, D. D., said: 
"Among the many elements of gentle life so 
mixed in our brother's character, none pos- 
sessed him with such power as the senti- 
ments and affections which can be satisfied 
only with definite and living realities. He 
had a clear and active intellect and a sound 
judgment ; his reading and learning were 
wide, discriminating and enriching; he pos- 
sessed a vigorous imagination and poetic 
sensibility ; a fine literary taste, a quick wit, 
a genuine subtle and refined humor in close 
alliance with the tenderest pathos. These 
abilities and graces were shown in the pul- 
pit, in the contributions of his pen, in 
charming letters and lectures, and, not least, 
in the social circle in which his presence was 
infectious good cheer." 

Rev. Jacob Cooper said : "There was 
such a blending of strength and beauty, of 
intellect and culture, of playful humor and 
quiet dignity, making the tout ensemble so 
perfect that there is no room for the esti- 
mation of special characteristics. — Our col- 
league was a man of most varied reading, 
and his mind was as bright and penetrating 
as quicksilver. It fastened upon grains of 
gold and left the dirt and dross. — The in- 
fluence of our colleague is appreciated not 
merely now that he has been called from us 
to a more exalted duty ; but was known and 
felt by us from the day he came among us. 
— Such characters as William Rankin Dur- 
yee, reckoned among her pupils, make a col- 
lege rich : and whether alive on earth and 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



ministering to her growth, or called to a 
yet higher service, are still her priceless 
treasures." 



DURYEE, Edward H., 

Laivyer, Library Official. 

For a quarter of a century identified with 
the Essex county bar, associated in practice 
with his brother, George S. Duryee, also 
deceased, and with the late Judge Howard 
B. Hayes as his law partner, Mr. Duryee 
passed a useful professional life marked by 
strict adherence to the ethics of his profes- 
sion and the sacred observance of those 
laws of probity that exist between men of 
honor. His life was devoted strictly to his 
profession, the only exception being the 
deep interest he exhibited in the manage- 
ment of the Public Library in his official 
capacity as trustee. 

Edward H., son of Peter S. Duryee, was 
born in Newark, and died at the Duryee 
mansion on Park Place, Newark, New Jer- 
sey, December 7, 1905. After elementary 
courses in Newark, he entered the Law- 
renceville Preparatory School at Lawrence- 
ville, New Jersey, and then entered Rutgers 
College, whence he was graduated with the 
class of '76. Deciding upon the law as his 
profession, he began study in the law offices 
of Dudley F. Field and Robert E. Deyo, of 
the eminent New York law firm of Field & 
Deyo, continuing under Oscar Keen, of 
Newark, and completing his preparation at 
Columbia University Law School, receiving 
his degree with the class of "78. He began 
his professional career as managing clerk 
for Field & Deyo, and was admitted to the 
New York bar in May, 1879. He was ad- 
mitted to the New Jersey bar at Trenton as 
an attorney in June, 1881, and as a counsel- 
lor at the June term, 1884. After his ad- 
mission to the New Jersey bar he began 
practice in Newark in association with his 
brother, George S. Duryee. now deceased. 
This became one of the successful law firms 
of the city, conducting a large practice in all 

338 



State and Federal courts of the district. 
Later in life Edward H. Duryee and the 
late Judge Howard W. Hayes, formed a 
law partnership that continued for several 
years, both members of the firm being men 
of highest legal standing and local promi- 
nence. 

Mr. Duryee gave to his profession his 
undivided devotion, never seeking public 
preferment or accepting political office. He 
was a Democrat, and helpful in council, but 
took little active part in public affairs. The 
one exception was his term of service begin- 
ning in 1890 as trustee of Newark Public 
Library, where he is remembered by his 
contemporaries as one of the earnest de- 
voted men who contributed largely to plac- 
ing the library in its present condition of 
helpfulness and benefit. His social clubs 
were the Essex of Newark and the Univer- 
sity of New York. Fond of out of door 
exercise and sport, he held membership in 
several country clubs and there gratified his 
love of open air sports. Mr. Duryee never 
married. 



RANDOLPH, Theodore Frelinghuysen, 

Governor, Statesman. 

Theodore Frelinghuysen Randolph, 
twenty-fourth Governor of New Jersey, 
(1869-72), was born in New Brunswick, 
New Jersey, June 24, 1816, son of James 
F. Randolph, founder and for forty years 
editor of the New Brunswick "Fredonian," 
and representative in Congress from 1824 
to 1830. His ancestors emigrated from 
Nottinghamshire, England, in 1622. and re- 
moved from Barnstable, Massachusetts, to 
Middlesex county, New Jersey, in 1630. 
His grandparents were active revolution- 
ists in the War for Independence. 

His early education was received at Rut 
gers Grammar school, and while still a mere 
boy, he entered business life as a clerk. In « 
1840 he went south and lived in Vicksburg, 'f 
Mississippi, where he was engaged in mer- 




<^ 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



cantile pursuits for about ten years. In 
185 1 he married Fanny F., daughter of N. 
D. Colman, of Kentucky, and grandniece, 
on her mother's side, of Chief Justice Mar- 
shall. Soon after his marriage he return- 
ed to New Jersey and lived in Jersey City, 
and was successfully engaged in the mining 
of coal and transportation of iron and ores. 
He was also for many years president of 
the Morris & Essex railroad, a position in 
which he achieved remarkable success, and 
showed his administrative and financial ca- 
pacity. He was elected a member of the 
House of Assembly of New Jersey from 
the first district of Hudson county in 1859, 
was re-elected in i860, and was a member 
of the special session of i860, convened by 
a call of the governor on account of the 
outbreak of the Civil War. He was prom- 
inent as a War Democrat, and served on 
important committees, including that on 
federal relations, and introduced and se- 
cured the passage of the first bill giving 
relief to the families of volunteers. In 1861 
he was elected State Senator from Hudson 
county to fill a vacancy, and in 1862 was 
re-elected for the full term of three years. 
He was energetic and efficient in the dis- 
charge of his duties, and served on the 
committees on education, civil service re- 
form, centennial exposition, and others. 
The office of State Comptroller was created 
in 1865 and through his instrumentality, 
and within five years it is said to have 
saved the State $500,000. He removed to 
Morristown, New Jersey, where he after- 
ward resided, and was elected Governor of 
New Jersey in the fall of 1868. His ad- 
ministration was vigorous and successful, 
and measures advocated and secured by 
him have been of lasting benefit to the 
State. Among these may be mentioned the 
establishment of the State riparian commis- 
sion, which has resulted in a large income 
to the State school fund; the passage of a 



system of general laws by which special 
legislation was avoided, and the repeal of 
the Camden & Amboy railroad monopoly 
tax, which had so long burdened the State. 
He also originated the plan on which the 
Morris Plains Lunatic Asylum, one of the 
largest in the world, was constructed. His 
firm course on the occasion of a riot in Jer- 
sey City on the anniversary of the battle 
of the Boyne, July 12, 1871, was much ap- 
plauded not only in New Jersey but 
throughout the country. He issued a proc- 
lamation in which, while he deprecated re- 
ligious and factional strife over issues of 
the past, he vindicated the American right 
to the largest liberty of expression of opin- 
ion, and followed it by calling out a brigade 
of State troops to preserve the peace, 
which they did so that no serious injuries 
occurred, although on the New York side 
of the Hlidson river many lives were lost 
(in the same day, owing to similar excite- 
ment there. 

He was elected United States Senator 
from New Jersey in 1875, and served until 
1881, with credit to himself and his native 
State. He was a member of the commit- 
tees on mines and mining, military affairs 
and commerce, for all of which he was 
particularly well qualified. Governor Ran- 
dolph was prominent in the councils of his 
party, both in State and national conven- 
tions, and was for several years chairman 
of the National Democratic Committee. 
He was a trustee of Rutgers College, a di- 
rector in many corporations and institu- 
tions, and was one of the founders and 
president of the Washington Headquarters 
Association of Morristown, New Jersey. 
For many years he had been a member of 
the Presbyterian church, and after his 
death it was found that he had given away 
over one-tenth of his income in unostenta- 
tious charity. He died in Morristown, New 
Jersey, November 7, 1883. 



339 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



HEALD, John Oxenbridge, 

Jja,\ryeT, Enterprising Citizen. 

John Oxenbridge Heald, a noted attorney 
of New York, whose residence was in 
Orange, New Jersey, was a descendant of 
one of the oldest famiHes in New England. 
The name Heald is supposed to be of Dan- 
ish origin, but is found in England in many 
generations. The coat armorial of one 
branch of the family, as given by Burke, is: 
Arms, quarterly gules and azure, in the first 
and fourth quarters an eagle with wings 
elevated or; in the second and third, a fret 
of the last, over all a fesse argent thereon 
between two crosses pattee, a rose, of the 
first, barbed and seeded proper. Crest : On 
a mount vert a bundle of arrows fesseways, 
the points toward the dexter, proper bound 
gules, thereon an eagle, wings elevated, 
criminois, in the beak a sprig of oak, also 
proper; the dexter claw resting on a cross 
pattee as in the arms. Motto : Mea gloria 
Crux. 

John Heald, the American ancestor, came 
from Berwick, England, and settled in Con- 
cord, Massachusetts, in 1635, and was made 
a freeman in 1641. From him the line of 
descent is as follows : John Heald, who 
was born in Concord, and married Sarah 
Dean; John Heald, son of John and Sarah 
(Dean) Heald, commonly known as Lieu- 
tenant John, married Mary, daughter of 
John Chandler ; Amos Heald, son of John 
and Mary (Chandler) Heald, married Eliz- 
abeth, daughter of Nathaniel Billings, of 
Concord. 

Daniel Heald, son of Amos and Elizabeth 
(Billings) Heald, was born in Concord, in 
1739. ^nd died in Chester, Vermont, in 
1833. He was deputy sheriff in Concord 
in 1774. He would not enroll at the battle 
of Concord, but shouldered his musket and 
fought side by side with the patriots, join- 
ing them at "The Bridge." He served in 
Colonel Prescott's division at the battle of 
Bunker Hill. In 1775 he served at Ticon- 
deroga, and his sympathies were with the 

340 



patriots all during this memorable struggle. 
For many years he was a deacon in the 
Congregational church. While the Revolu- 
tionary War was in progress he removed 
to Chester, Vermont. He married Abigail 
Wheeler. 

Amos Heald, son of Daniel and Abigail 
(Wheeler) Heald, was born in Lincoln, 
Massachusetts, in 1765, and died in Ches- 
ter, Vermont. He was but nine years of 
age when he was a witness of the battle of 
Concord, and he was thoroughly imbued 
with the spirit of patriotism from his earli- 
est years. During his earlier years he 
worked on the farm in Chester, and later 
taught school for a time. He was a man of 
prominence in the community, held a num- 
ber of public positions, among them being 
those of town clerk, justice of the peace, 
judge of the county court, sheriff of the 
county, and he represented his town in the 
State Legislature. For many years he was 
a deacon in the Congregational church. He 
married Lydia Edwards, daughter of Cap- 
tain Ebenezer Edwards, of Acton, who was 
a participant in the battle which took place 
at Concord Bridge, was at the battle of 
Bunker Hill, and worked on the fortifica- 
tions at Dorchester Heights ; she was also a 
granddaughter of Nathaniel Edwards, who 
also fought at Concord Bridge. 

Daniel Addison Heald, son of Amos and 
Lydia (Edwards) Heald, was born at Ches- 
ter, in 1 818, and lived on the farm until the 
age of sixteen years. His elementary edu- 
cation was acquired in the common schools, 
and he then attended in succession, Kim- 
berly LTnion Academy, Meriden, New 
Hampshire, and Yale College, from which 
he was graduated in the class of 1841. He 
also read law with Judges Duggett and 
Washburn, and was admitted to the bar in 
1843. He was not alone an able lawyer but 
a financier as well, and as a statesman 
earned much commendation. As a repre- 
sentative of the Whig party he was elected 
to the lower house of the Vermont State 
Legislature in 1850, and in 1854 was elected 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



to the State Senate. For two years he prac- 
ticed law in Galena, Illinois, having been 
admitted to the Galena bar. After he began 
the practice of law in his native town, Mr. 
Heald became identified with insurance in- 
terests, becoming first general agent then 
vice-president and finally president of the 
Home Insurance Company of New York. 
Mr. Heald was prominent in the New York 
Board of Underwriters many years, and it 
was largely owing to his efforts that the 
National Board of Underwriters was called 
into existence. He was regarded as an 
insurance expert without a peer, and as a 
public speaker on matters of this kind ex- 
erted a widespread and beneficial influence. 
He became identified with the improvement 
of the Oranges, New Jersey, in 1857, and 
was a leading spirit in the development of 
the beautiful Llewellyn Park ; he was secre- 
tary of the Board of Proprietors from 1858, 
and was the incumbent of this office many 
years. He was one of the nine original 
members of the New England Society of 
Orange, and was twice elected its president ; 
one of the original members of the Orange 
Valley Congregational Church, and a trus- 
tee six years; one of the organizers of the 
Orange Memorial Hospital, president of the 
advisory board fifteen years, and treasurer 
of the endowment fund from the time of its 
establishment. Mr. Heald married (first) 
Sarah Elizabeth Washburn, also of dis- 
tinguished ancestry; (second) Elizabeth M. 
Goddard. 

John Oxenbridge Heald, son of Daniel 
Addison and Sarah Elizabeth (Washburn) 
Heald, was born in Ludlow, Windsor coun- 
ty, Vermont, October 18, 1850, and died 
in Orange, New Jersey, October 10, 191 1. 
His education which was a comprehensive 
and thorough one, was commenced at Phil- 
lips Exeter Academy, New Hampshire, and 
continued at Yale University, being gradu- 
ated in chemistry and metallurgy from the 
Sheffield Scientific School in the class of 
1873, and then became a student at the Law 
School of Columbia University, New York 

341 



City, from which he was graduated in th« 
class of 1875. He established himself in 
the practice of his chosen profession in 
the city of New York, having offices at No. 
62 Wall street, and at No. 141 Broadway. 
His residence was at No. 182 Park avenue, 
Orange, New Jersey, in which city he also 
achieved prominence in various fields, and 
served as president of the Second National 
Bank of Orange. His political affiliations 
were with the Republican party, and he was 
a member of the Trinity Congregational 
Church of Orange. He held membership 
and official position in many organizations, 
a list of these being as follows : Delta 
Kappa, Phi Theta Psi, Psi Upsilon, and 
Scroll and Key societies at Yale; Men- 
delssohn Glee Club of New York twenty 
years; president of the Mendelssohn Union 
almost twenty years ; president of the Yale 
Alumni Association of Essex county; presi- 
dent of the New York Alumni Association 
of Exeter Academy; Society of the Cin- 
cinnati; University and Yale clubs; New 
York Bar Association of New York; 
Graduates' Club of New Haven ; president 
of the New England Society; Essex Coun- 
ty Country Club. 

Mr. Heald married (first) in October, 
1876, Gertrude A. Gardner, of New Haven, 
who died the following July. He married 
(second) in Philadelphia, September 3, 
1885, Elizabeth Manning, daughter of Jo- 
seph Estabrook and Hannah Amanda 
(Estabrook) Manning. Children: Ruth 
Washburn, born August 11, 1886; Daniel 
Addison, May 16, 1889; Ehzabeth Esta- 
brook, born October 13. 1894, died June 
22, 1913. 



CONDIT, William Peck, 

Iieader in Development of Orange. 

William Peck Condit, for many years 
prominently connected with real estate af- 
fairs and public matters in the Oranges, 
New Jersey, was a representative of an old 
family of Essex county. He possessed su- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



perior business ability, keen discernment 
and sound judgment, and his well directed 
efforts were a great benefit to the commun- 
ity in which he resided. He won the re- 
spect and esteem of all with whom he came 
in contact, and his loss was mourned in 
all circles. 

The Condit family of New Jersey, which 
played an important and prominent part in 
the history of Essex county from its earliest 
period down to the present day, is of Nor- 
man descent, and the name has had honor- 
able mention more than once in English 
history. Among the most prominent of the 
English members of the family was John 
Conduit, Knight, who married, in England, 
Catherine Barton, widow, niece of Sir Isaac 
Newton, with whom the couple resided dur- 
ing Sir Isaac's life, and from whom they 
inherited his estate. Sir John Conduit suc- 
ceeded Sir Isaac also as master and warden 
of the mint, and died January 20, 1739, at 
the age of eighty years. His wife died May 
27, 1737, aged forty-nine. Their monument 
is in Westminster Abbey. They had one 
child who married a Mr. Wallap, eldest 
son of Lord Lynington. The Kensington 
estate descended to the Earl of Portsmouth. 

(I) John Cunditt, first known member 
of the family in this country, came to Amer- 
ica in 1678 with his son Peter, and settled 
at Newark, New Jersey. He bought land 
there in 1689 and i6c)i, and died in 1713. 
By his first wife he had a son Peter, of 
further mention. By his second wife, De- 
borah, he had a son John, who died before 
attaining his majority. There is reason to 
believe that his second wife was a widow 
when he married her, and that she had a 
daughter Mary, who married Captain John 
Morris. 

(II) Peter Condit, only child of John 
Cunditt to reach maturity and marry, came 
to America with his father. He died in 
1 714, leaving a widow and seven children. 
From the frequent mention in the Newark 
record of the "two widows Cunditts," it 
seems probable that Peter's widow lived 

342 



with her mother-in-law at least for some 
time after her husband's death. Peter Con- 
dit married, in 1695, Mary, a daughter of 
Samuel Harrison ; granddaughter of Ser- 
geant Richard Harrison ; and great-grand- 
daughter of Richard Harrison, of Cheshire, 
England, and of Branford, Connecticut. 
Children: Samuel, of further mention; 
Peter, born 1698 or 1699, died July 11, 
1768, married Phebe Dodd ; John, bom 
about 1701, died about 1783, married Jo- 
anna, daughter of Matthew Williams, of ■ 
Newark: Nathaniel, born about 1703, died 
June 23, 1746, married Elizabeth, daughter 
of Swain and Susan (Ackerman) Ogden, 
of Orange; Mary, born in 1705 or 1706; 
Philip, born in April, 1709, died December 
23, 1801, married Mary Day; Isaac, born 
171 1 or 1712, was living in 1764, and mar- 
ried, but wife's name not known. 

(Ill) Samuel Condit, eldest child of 
Peter and Mary (Harrison) Condit, was 
born in Newark, New Jersey, December 6, 
1696, and died July 18, 1777. About 1720 
he purchased land lying between the Orange 
Mountains, afterwards called Pleasant Val- 
ley. Subtracting from this land five planta- 
tions of fifty acres each, he built on each 
plantation a house which he donated to each 
of his five sons, giving at the same time a 
family Bible apiece. He reserved for him- 
self a homestead plot of seventy acres. 
Three of these farms have ever since re- 
mained in the family line of descent, and 
it is a remarkable fact that his descendants 
have a continuous representation in an of- 
ficial capacity in the churches of Orange for 
more than one hundred and fifty years. He 
is buried in the Orange burying ground, 
having survived his first wife more than 
twenty years, and his second wife exactly 
five months. Their graves are near their 
husband, while in close proximity is the 
resting place of his third son, Samuel Jr. 

Samuel Condit married (first) in 1722, 
Mary Dodd, born November 8, 1698, died 
May 25, 1755, who became the mother of 
all his children. He married (second) in 



J 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



.1756, Mary ( Nutman ) Williams, bom in 
1700, died February 18, 1777; she was at 
the time of this marriage the widow of 
Amos Williams. Children of Samuel and 
Mary (Dodd) Condit: i. Daniel, of fur- 
ther mention. 2. Jotham, born January 29, 
1727, died July 9. 1752; married Rebecca 
Pierson. 3. Samuel, born January 13, 1729, 
died November 18, 1776; married (first) 
Mary, daughter of Joseph Smith, of 
Orange; (second) Martha (Carter) Wil- 
cox, widow of Stephen Wilcox, of Eliza- 
bethtown, who after his death married 
(third ) Deacon Paul Day, of Bottle or Long 
Hill, Morris county, New Jersey. 4. 
Martha, born October 17, 1731, died Janu- 
ary 6, 1831 ; married (first) Gershom Wil- 
liams, (second) Jedediah Freeman. 5. 
David, born March 17, 1734, died April 24, 
1777; married Joanna Williams; enlisted in 
Second Regiment, New Jersey militia, dur- 
ing the Revolutionary War ; promoted to 
major, 1776, and for gallantry brevetted 
lieutenant-colonel. 6. Jonathan, born Oc- 
tober 18, 1736, died August 29, 1823; mar- 
ried his cousin Jemima, daughter of John 
Condit ; was captain of militia. Second New 
Jersey Regiment, during the Revolution. 
(IV) Daniel Condit, eldest child of 
Samuel and Mary ( Dodd ) Condit, was 
born in Orange, New Jersey, December 27. 
1723, and died November 11, 1785. He was 
a farmer and occupied the land given him 
by his father. He was also a soldier in 
the Revolutionary army, having enlisted 
as a private in the First Battalion, Second 
Establishment of the New Jersey militia. 
He married Ruth, born December 29, 1723, 
died November 23, 1807, a daughter of 
Samuel and Jemima (Williams) Harrison, 
granddaughter of Samuel and Mary 
(Ward) Harrison, and great-granddaughter 
of Sergeant Richard Harrison. Daniel Con- 
dit was a deacon in the Presbyterian church, 
and an exemplary Christian man. Qiil- 
dren : i. Adonijah, born in 1749. died Sep- 
tember 13, 1770. 2. Eunice, married Na- 
thaniel Ogden. 3. Jemima, married Major 



Aaron Harrison. 4. Mary, born January 
18, 1756; married her cousin Philip, son of 
Philip Condit, of Morristown. 5. Joel, 
married Sarah Wheeler. 6. Amos, born 
January 2, 1759, died March 12, 1802; mar- 
ried Dorcas Harrison. 7. Samuel, of fur- 
ther mention. 8. Ira, born February 21, 
1764, died June i, i8u, he was graduated 
from Princeton College, and later became a 
trustee thereof ; vice-president and Profes- 
sor of Moral Philosophy in Queen's (now 
Rutgers ) College ; became a minister in the 
Dutch Reformed Church ; married Sarah, 
daughter of Henry Perine, of Freehold, 
New Jersey. 

(V) Samuel Condit. seventh child and 
fourth son of Daniel and Ruth (Harrison) 
Condit, was born August 16, 1761, and died 
August 31, 1822. After his marriage he 
removed to the eastern side of the Orange 
Mountains, and resided at what was long 
known as "Tory Comer." He was a 
farmer, a devout Christian man, a kind 
parent, a sincere friend, and a private in 
the Revolutionary War. He married, in 
1785, Hannah Harrison, born October 29, 
1764, died January 31, 1855, a daughter of 
Ichabod and Sarah ( Williams ) Harrison ; 
granddaughter of Nathaniel Harrison ; 
great-granddaughter of Joseph and Dorcas 
( W'ard ) Harrison ; and great-great-grand- 
daughter of Sergeant John Ward. Chil- 
dren : I. Jemima, born October 7, 1786, 
died December 16, 1788. 2. Sarah, born 
July 30, 1788, died August 24, 1841 ; mar- 
ried Ichabod Losey. 3. Jemima, born April 
29, 1 791, died March 28, 1882; married 
Samuel Morris Dodd, whom she survived 
fifty-one years. 4. Eunice, born July 2, 
1793, died November 22, 1882; married 
John Munn. 5. Harriet, born November 
22, 1795, died January 4, 1880; married 
(first) A-'iner Van Zandt Jones, (second) 
Deacon Henry Pierson. 6. Samuel, of 
further mention. 7. Mary, born November 
5, 1802, died December 30. 1881 ; married 
Stephen Dodd. 8. Abigail, born March 
29. 1804, died April 26, 1880; married 



343 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Thomas D. Kilburn. 9. Clara, born Feb- 
ruary 28, 1806, died March 23, 1842; be- 
came the first wife of Thomas W. Munn. 
10. Ira H., born May 16, 1808, died Janu- 
ary 7, 1906; married Phebe Farrand Mul- 
ford, daughter of Timothy and Susan 
(Kitchell) Mulford, and granddaughter of 
Aaron and Phebe (Farrand) Kitchell. 11. 
Ichabod, born December 6, 1810, died in 
1811. 

(VI) Samuel Condit, son of Samuel 
and Hannah (Harrison) Condit, was born 
in Orange, March 22, 1798, and died Octo- 
ber 22, 1864. The occupation of farming 
was his life work, and he also devoted a 
large amount of time to stock raising. He 
was a progressive and enterprising citizen, 
took an active interest in everything per- 
taining to the welfare of the community, 
and was a liberal contributor to church and 
charitable work. He assisted in the organ- 
ization of the Second Presbyterian Church 
of Orange, and was one of its most con- 
sistent members and active workers. He 
married Phebe Peck, an only daughter, born 
June 17, 1801, died March 29, 1848, and 
they had twelve children. 

(VII) William Peck Condit, fifth child 
of Samuel and Phebe (Peck) Condit, was 
born March 30, 1829, in the Condit farm 
house which then stood at what is now the 
northeast corner of Washington and East 
Park streets, East Orange ; he died, August 
27, 191 5, at his home, No. 139 Washington 
street. East Orange, New Jersey, after an 
illness of but two days' duration. Mr. Con- 
dit inherited the farmhouse and the farm 
from his father, whom he had assisted in 
cultivating it. Realizing the increased value 
of the property as the town grew in extent, 
he gradually had this property divided into 
building plots and sold these to great ad- 
vantage. In the course of time a number 
of new streets were cut through this sec- 
tion under his direction, and he amassed a 
very comfortable fortune, a part of which, 
however, was swept away in the panic of 
1873. Among the thoroughfares he opened 

344 



were : Glenwood avenue. East Park street, 
Springdale avenue, all these being in East 
Orange; and Park Place and Duane street 
in Orange. In his earlier years, after he 
had ceased attending the public schools, he 
learned the trade of carriage building with 
Timothy W. Mulford, but he never follow- 
ed this calling in later life, his business 
mostly in real estate, especially in Orange 
and East Orange. By means of his real 
estate operations, Mr. Condit played an im- 
portant part in the growth and development 
of Orange and of East Orange. In public 
affairs his activity was also of a nature to 
greatly benefit the community, and although 
he never particularly sought public office, 
it was tendered him at various times, and he 
held it the part of a conscientious citizen 
to accept these offers and do his share in 
upbuilding the interests of the community. 
For many years he had been considered as 
one of the leaders of the political affairs 
of the Oranges. About 1855 Mr. Condit 
served as quartermaster under General Jo- 
seph A. Condit ; during the Civil War he 
was provost marshal for the Eleventh Dis- 
trict of New Jersey; in 1873 he was elected 
a member of the East Orange township 
committee, and served one term ; he served 
as tax assessor and as a member of the 
school board of trustees ; in 1897 and 1898 
was appraisement commissioner for the 
Essex County Park Commission, which at 
the time was acquiring large tracts of land ; 
some years ago was one of the commission- 
ers who condemned land in Caldwell for a 
projected railroad ; in his earlier years he 
was a justice of the peace. The fraternal 
affiliations of Mr. Condit were with Union 
Lodge, No. II. Free and .Accepted Masons, 
of Orange, of which he had been past mas- 
ter ; L^nion Chapter, No. 7, Royal Arch 
Masons, of Newark ; Kane Council, No. 2, 
Royal and Select Masters ; and the Thirteen 
Club of New York City. 

Mr. Condit married, in Newark, June 24, 
1862, Emily A. (Mead) Olds, daughter of 
William and Elizabeth (Hubbard) Mead, 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



and widow of James Olds ; she died Febru- 
ary I, 1915. They became the parents of 
children as follows : Bertha C, who died 
at the age of three years ; Emily, of East 
Orange ; Mary M., who was graduated from 
the East Orange high school and who after- 
wards taught for several years in the public 
schools of that city, and later in New York 
City; and Watson S.. engaged in the mer- 
cantile business in Newark; mairied Jose- 
phine Sweney ; has children : Josephine, 
Euphenie, Richard Edison and Robert 
Ogden. He lives at 8 Oakwood avenue, 
corner of Main, Orange. 



COOKE, John, 



Prominent IiOComotiTe Builder. 

John Cooke, the president of the Dan- 
forth Locomotive and Machine Company, 
was born in Montreal, Canada, August 8, 
1824. His parents were Watts and Lavinia 
(Donaldson) Cooke, natives of County 
Armagh, Ireland. His ancestors on his 
father's side were English, on his mother's 
side Scotch, having emigrated to Ireland 
during the persecution. 

Watts Cooke was a carpenter by trade, 
and emigrated to this country about 1822, 
with his wife and one son. He landed at 
Quebec and proceeded at once to Montreal, 
where an older brother worked at his trade 
on the famous Notre Dame Cathedral at 
that place. The climate and society of 
Montreal being uncongenial, in 1827 he re- 
moved to the city of Albany, New York, 
where he worked in Townsend's furnace 
until 1832, acquiring meanwhile the trade of 
pattern-maker. He then entered the employ 
of the Matteawan Machine Company, 
Dutchess county. New York, where he en- 
gaged in pattern-making. He was an ex- 
cellent mechanic, and possessed superior 
ability in the manufacture of mill-gearing. 
In the summer of 1839 he removed to Pat- 
erson. New Jersey, and entered the works 
of Rogers, Ketchum & Grosvenor, where 
he worked at pattern-making. He subse- 

345 



quently worked for Danforth, Cooke & Co. 
as pattern-maker until 1859, when he re- 
tired from active life. He died in 1876, and 
his wife in 1869. He was an industrious 
and able mechanic, and performed the duties 
cf life in a modest and faithful manner. 
In politics he was not conspicuous, but al- 
ways an anti-slavery man and a staunch 
Republican, and never missed depositing his 
ballot. He was one of the founders of the 
Presbyterian church at Matteawan, in which 
he held the office of deacon, and during his 
residence at Paterson was a member and 
supporter of the Second Presbyterian 
Church. Ten children were born to Mr. 
and Mrs. Cooke, of whom nine are living, 
five daughters and four sons, viz. : John, 
the subject of our sketch ; William, who 
engaged in the machinery supply business 
in New York; Watts, president of the Pas- 
saic Rolling Mills, Paterson ; and James, 
who has been superintendent of the Dan- 
forth Locomotive and Machine Company. 
The earlier life of John Cooke was in- 
timately identified with that of his father, 
and his opportunities for obtaining an educa- 
tion were very limited. In the district 
school, the cotton factory, and the machine 
shop he acquired a fair English education, 
and obtained such knowledge of machinery 
and active manufacture as was of great 
benefit to him in after life. In 1839 he 
came to Paterson with his father. After ar- 
riving in that city he enjoyed three months 
schooling under John D. Kiley, a teacher of 
great ability and culture, and possessed of 
fine oratorical powers. In August, 1839, at 
the age of fifteen, he entered the employ of 
Rogers, Ketchum & Grosvenor, who were 
at that time engaged in the manufacturing 
of locomotives and machinery. He learned 
the trade of pattern-making, and remained 
an apprentice until he attained his majority. 
During which time he spent many of his 
leisure hovirs in the study of mechanics and 
mechanical drawing. William Swinburne, 
the superintendent, withdrew from the con- 
cern in 1844 in order to establish the firm of 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



Swinburne, Smith & Co., machine makers, 
and was succeeded for a time by Stephen 
Thurston, formerly from Matteawan, who 
resigned the position after nine months ser- 
vice. 

Mr. Cooke, who was then twenty-one 
years of age and had already attracted the 
attention of Mr. Rogers, was appointed the 
successor of Mr. Thurston, and installed in 
the office of draughtsman and superintend- 
ent of the locomotive-shop, which carried 
with it at that time the general superin- 
tendency of the business. Thus early in 
life had his close application to business, his 
skill and ability as a mechanic, and his 
fidelity in the performance of his duties re- 
ceived the recognition of the leading locomo- 
tive-maker of the United States. He re- 
mained as superintendent of the Rogers 
Works, during which time many valuable 
improvements and changes in the business 
of locomotive manufacture were made, until 
August I, 1852, when, although offered an 
interest with Rogers, Ketchum & Grosvenor 
if he would remain, he resigned the position 
to join Charles Danforth, Major John Ed- 
wards and Edwin T. Prall in the manufac- 
ture of cotton machines, cotton yarns, and 
locomotives. The firm name was Danforth 
Cooke & Co. Previous to that time Messrs. 
Danforth & Edwards had engaged simply 
in the manufacture of machinery and cot- 
ton yarn, and Mr. Prall had been their book- 
keeper and general business manager. Mr. 
Cooke was brought into the concern as one 
thoroughly versed in the manufacture of 
locomotive engines, and was given a prom- 
inent place in the firm and the superin- 
tendency of the locomotive department, the 
making of which was entered upon simul- 
taneously with his connection with the firm. 
Suitable shops for that purpose were soon 
erected, many of the special tools needed for 
the purpose of manufacture were made in 
the shop under Mr. Cooke's superintend- 
ence, and the first engine, the "Vincennes," 
was built for use on the Ohio & IMississippi 
railroad in the winter of 1852. Some delay 



occurred in the construction of the road, so 
that the first engine actually delivered by 
the concern was in March, 1853. It was 
named the "Sandusky," the same as that 
first produced by the Rogers Works in 1836. 
One hundred and two engines were made in 
1881, although the works had not got quite 
into full operation at the beginning of the 
year owing to their destruction by fire the 
preceding year. In 1865 the firm of Dan- 
forth, Cooke & Co. assumed the corporate 
name of the Danforth Locomotive and Ma- 
chine Co., with Mr. Danforth as president, 
and Mr. Cooke as superintendent of the 
locomotive department and as a member of 
the executive committee, which carries with 
it the office of president pro tempore, or 
vice-president. In 1866 the latter resigned 
this office to visit Europe as a means of 
improving his health, which had become im- 
paired by years of labor and toil, and was 
succeeded by Major John Edwards in the 
position of member of the executive com- 
mittee, and his brother James as superin- 
tendent of the locomotive department. Mr. 
Cooke returned in 1869, and was elected 
director and treasurer of the company in 
1870. He held this position until 1872, 
when, upon the resignation of Mr. Dan- 
forth, he became president of the company, 
a position that he filled in an acceptable 
and successful manner until his death, Feb- 
ruary 20, 1882. The works of the company 
were among the largest and most successful 
in the L^nited States. 

The abilities of Mr. Cooke as a mechanic 
and as an executive officer have long been 
recognized by those familiar with the busi- 
ness of locomotive building. He made 
a number of important contributions to the 
science of locomotive construction, for 
which he neither asked nor received 
special credit. He had taken out but few 
patents, and did not claim to be an inven- 
tor, considering that a locomotive builder 
who watches carefully the construction of 
his work and looks after a large force of 
men has no time to spend on patent im- 



1 



I 



346 



i 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



provements. During the thirteen years that 
he was employed at the Rogers Works a 
number of radical and progressive changes 
were made in the building of locomotive 
engines, with most of which he was identi- 
fied, being in the closest sympathy with Mr. 
Rogers in the adoption of all improvement. 
Among the most important of these were 
four and six drivers, instead of one pair, 
and the improved valve motion, which re- 
sulted in great economy in fuel and in 
increased speed. The greatest improvement 
in the locomotive since the building of the 
"Rocket" by Stephenson, and one which was 
never patented, the link motion, was also 
applied during the time that Mr. Cooke was 
connected with the Rogers Works ; and the 
first model, from a drawing sent over from 
England, and showing the action of the 
valve affected by the invention was made 
by him about 1864. Soon after the prin- 
ciple was applied by Mr. Rogers to a loco- 
motive, and has since come into general use. 
Mr. Cooke confined himself very closely 
through life to mechanical and constructive 
pursuits, although feeling an active interest 
in events transpiring around him, and being 
identified with many local movements of 
importance. In politics he was known as 
an extreme anti-slavery man, and voted for 
John C. Fremont in 1865. He was one of 
the organizers of the Republican party in 
Paterson, was treasurer of the central com- 
mittee, and active in the establishment of the 
"Paterson Republican," afterward absorbed 
by the "Guardian." He was also one of the 
seven trustees appointed by the subscribers 
to establish the "Paterson Press." He rep- 
resented the South Ward in the board of 
aldermen of Paterson in 1858 and subse- 
quently filled the position of president of 
the Board of Education of that city, which 
he resigned because of ill health. He was 
one of the organizers of the First National 
Bank of Paterson, and was vice-president. 
He was also vice-president of the Paterson 
Savings Institution, and the Paterson Board 
of Trade ; a director of the Passaic Rolling 



Mills, and also of the Paterson GasHght 
Company. He was a member and regular 
attendant of the Second Presbyterian 
Church of Paterson, and for many years 
was the superintendent of the Sabbath 
school connected with that church. 

He married, in 1850, Sarah A., daugh- 
ter of William Swinburne, of Paterson, 
who had six children, of whom four are 
living: Carrie S., wife of John R. Beam; 
John Swinburne, a graduate of Stevens' In- 
stitute, Hoboken ; Frederick William, and 
Charles D. 



MARGARUM, Theodore Frelinghuysen, 

Financier, Public Official. 

In modern ages and to a large extent in 
the past, banks have constituted a vital part 
of organized society, and governments, both 
monarchial and popular, liave depended 
upon them for material aid in times of de- 
pression and trouble. Their influence has 
extended over the entire world, and their 
prosperity has been the barometer which 
has unfalteringly indicated the financial 
status of all nations. Of this important 
branch of business Mr. Theodore Freling- 
huysen Margarum, late of Sussex, New Jer- 
sey, was a worthy representative. For more 
than a quarter of a century he held the re- 
sponsible position of cashier of the Farmers' 
National Bank of Deckertown, and later was 
its honored and efficient president. His 
conservative and safe policy, supplemented 
by modern progressiveness, was an import- 
ant factor in insuring the success of the in- 
stitution and made it one of the most reliable 
financial concerns in the county. 

Mr. Margarum was a native of Stock- 
holm, New Jersey, born June 7, 1840, a son 
of Stephen F. and Lucy (Hammond) Mar- 
garum, and died November 18, 1905. His 
ancestral history was one of long and close 
identification with this section of the State. 
His father was one of the leading business 
men of Sussex county, where in addition 
to farming he operated a forge and a saw 
and grist mill. He carried on his business af- 



347 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



fairs on an extensive scale for those days, 
and in matters of public concern he exerted 
considerable influence. Born June 3, 1793, 
he died in 1852, and his wife, who was 
born in 1799, passed away in 1884. Their 
family numbered seven children : Cath- 
erine, wife of S. T. Lazer, of U'arwick, 
New York; Lucy, who died in childhood; 
David F. ; Mary, wife of Rev. D. E. Fram- 
bes, of Cape May, New Jersey; N. H., who 
is living on the old family homestead in 
Sussex county; Edward S., who died at the 
age of twenty-four years. 

Theodore Frelinghuysen Margarum was 
educated in the seminary at Pennington. 
New Jersey, and in Wyoming Seminary, at 
Kingston, Pennsylvania. Upon the com- 
pletion of his education he entered upon his 
business career in Newton as clerk in a 
mercantile establishment. In 1865 he went 
to Norfolk, Virginia, with a view of enter- 
ing business there, but after a year re- 
turned to Newton, and for fifteen years was 
connected with its business interests as clerk 
and principal in a mercantile establishment. 
For some time he was connected with the 
house of Stoll, Dunn & Company, and then 
embarked in business independently. He 
was successful in his undertakings, and his 
well directed efforts brought to him a com- 
fortable competence. In 1874 he came to 
Deckertown to accept the position of cashier 
in the Farmers' National Bank. The de- 
posits in the institution at the time ranged 
from $35,000 to $50,000, but were increased 
to $250,000 — a fact which plainly indicated 
the healthy growth of the bank and its thor- 
ough reliability. Not a little of its success 
was due to the careful management and 
progressive spirit of Mr. Margarum, who 
was the popular and efficient cashier, and 
later the president. He was chosen to the 
latter office in May, 1894, upon the death of 
his predecessor, John A. Whitaker. He was 
regarded as one of the safe and substantial 
business men of Sussex county, and in addi- 
tion to his banking interests he oversaw a 
large amount of property, and had in trust 

348 



a number of extensive estates, among them 
those of General Hugh Kilpatrick and the 
Hon. John Loomas. 

Mr. Margarum was united in marriage 
to Miss Isabel Whitaker, a daughter of 
John A. Whitaker, for many years one of 
the most honored residents of Sussex coun- 
ty. Their beautiful home on Bank street 
was one of the fine residences of the town, 
and its hospitable doors were ever open for 
the reception of their many friends. They 
had children : Mary, Mattie and Ford W. 

In his political connections Mr. Mar- 
garum was a stalwart Republican, giving an 
unwavering support to the men and meas- 
ures of the party from the time he cast his 
first presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln 
in 1864. Well informed on the issues of 
the day and deeply interested in the welfare 
of the community, he was called to public 
office and therein discharged his duties with 
marked fidelity. After the incorporation of 
Deckertown as a borough he was elected 
its first mayor and filled that office for three 
consecutive terms, from 1892 to 1895, in- 
clusive. His administration was an able 
one, in which the best interests of the town 
were greatly advanced. Every effort put 
forth to promote the welfare of the town 
received his support and co-operation, and 
he was regarded as one of the most valued 
residents of Deckertown. He was a man of 
high intellectuality, broad human sympathies 
and tolerance, and imbued with fine sensi- 
bilities and clearly defined principles. Honor 
and integrity were synonymous with his 
name, and he enjoyed the respect, con- 
fidence and high regard of the entire com- 
munity, as the appended eulogy and resolu- 
tions show. The "Sussex Independent" of 
November 24, 1905. said of him: 

Last Saturday night, at 10.45 o'clock. Theodore 
F. Margarum, one of the best and most favorably 
known men in the county, died at his home in the 
Borough of Sussex. The flight of his spirit 
leaves an immense void in his circle of friend- 
ship and kinship. In every station in life he 
acted well his part. While he possessed a ten- 
derness of heart not known to many, he strove 



J 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



always to do justice to all, and was patient of the 
faults of others. He shrank from no responsi- 
bility which he should assume, and he maintained 
the dignity of manhood. He had a commanding 
intellect, and while of a quiet, mild and moderate 
nature, he impressed noble ideas of honor upon 
those around him. Human sentiments are strong- 
ly affected by associations. The companions and 
friends of Theodore Margarum were the better 
in the higher purposes of life for his friendship 
and personal contact. He was fond of the so- 
ciety of men younger than himself. He infused 
high impulses into more youthful minds ; and 
while as a human being he is no more, his in- 
fluence will extend along the avenue of life so 
long as memory shall last. 

A personal friendly relationship of thirty years, 
which involved almost daily contact, made known 
to the writer the high purposes of his life, his 
aspirations and his hopes for those who looked 
to him as father and friend. The writer also 
knew his generous consideration for those de- 
pendent upon him and those who lovingly cared 
for him in his illness. He was our staunch 
friend, when friends were needed ; a good, safe 
adviser, when advice was needed. 

At the announcement of his death we were 
taken back over the years and incidents of his 
kindness in our personal relations, and we won- 
dered not that his departure touched the chords 
of public sympathy, for we are only one of many 
whose hearts go out in the same sad phase of 
human experience. All who knew him testify 
to his integrity of purpose, his fidelity in ser- 
vice, and his absolute uprightness of character 
in public and private life. He has left a legacy 
of memories and of good name valuable far 
beyond any worldly possession. As another 
mound is raised in the familiar cemetery and 
another name added to the long list of friends 
who have gone to the other shore, there comes a 
feeling of deep satisfaction from the hope that 
by-and-by we will all be there ; and then, no more 
death, no more mourning, no more grief. There 
was not the least pretence nor hypocrisy in the 
nature of Mr. Margarum, and when his hour 
came he died as he had lived, relying upon the 
justice and mercy of his Maker. If his irre- 
proachable life hath its reward in the other world 
his spirit is peaceful and happy in the abode of 
the blessed. 

Resolutions passed by the board of direc- 
tors of the Farmers' National Bank of Sus- 
sex, upon the death of Theodore F. Mar- 
garum : 

Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God to re- 



move Theodore F. Margarum, who was an es- 
teemed and successful banker; and. 

Whereas, In recognition of his worth and char- 
acter the Board of Directors of the Farmers' 
National Bank of Sussex deems it meet and 
proper to unite in a tribute to his memory; there- 
fore. 

Resolved, That in the death of Theodore F. 
Margarum, Sussex county has lost one of its 
most loving citizens and best bankers ; that he 
was a man of high character and noble attain- 
ments ; that he was bold and firm in his official 
duties, but at the same time kind and pleasant. 
His thought was profound and his judgment the 
best. He had a clear mind and a deep intellect, 
and his wisdom was sought by young, middle- 
aged and old. By his activity, industry and good 
management the bank flourished. He had a mild 
and loving disposition, always a pleasant word 
and good cheer to those whom he met, and was 
friendly and social to all classes, drawing them 
to him, so that his friends were almost number- 
less. He was kind-hearted, a good neighbor, a 
friend to the poor, always generous and benevo- 
lent, and his hand was open to help the needy. 
He was one of the best of citizens, always ready 
to contribute to every good cause. His was a 
good life. He was a Christian gentleman, and 
we believe that since God has called him to his 
reward, he is among the righteous in heaven. 

Resolved, That in further respect to the mem- 
ory of this kind esteemed banker and citizen we 
recommend that this tribute be spread upon the 
minutes of the bank and a copy sent to the 
family, and that it be published in the Sussex 
Independent and Wantage Recorder. 

A. Watson Slockbower, 
Charles A. Wilson, 
S. Christie Hayne, 
Leo p. Wise, 
Committee on Resolutions. 



BOISAUBIN, Vincent, 

Noted Soldier and Divine. 

Vincent Classe Van Schal-Kwyck Bois- 
aubin was born in the parish of Port Louis, 
island of Guadeloupe, French West Indies, 
April, 1755, died at his residence near Mor- 
ristown, New Jersey, in June, 1834. 

Rev. Father Dutertre, an eminent divine 
and author, in his invaluable history of the 
French West India islands (Histoire des 
Antilles), has traced the history of the is- 



349 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



land of Guadeloupe from its first settlement 
in the year 1625, under French auspices, to 
the year 1667, and since that time Dessalles 
and other well known writers have com- 
pleted the narrative of events occurring in 
the Antilles down to more modern times. 
We learn from them the great hardships 
these colonists suffered, of their long and 
terrible wars with the native Caribs, how 
after many years those savages were finally 
subdued, and how in 1674 the island of 
Guadeloupe was made a colony of France 
during the reign of Louis XR'. From this 
time the colonists took part in all the great 
wars waged by the mother country, from 
which they suffered severely. Valiant and 
successful resistance was made by them 
against the attacks of the English in the 
years 1666, 1691 and 1703, and during most 
of this time they contended single-handed 
against this formidable foe. France, being 
so engrossed in her vast continental wars, 
was unable to render her colony material 
assistance, owing to which and other causes 
the island capitulated in 1759 to Great 
Britain, and remained a British colony until 
the year 1763. After throwing off the Brit- 
ish yoke, in the war of 1794 they were again 
captured by their old enemy, who, however, 
in June of the same year was expelled by 
the colonists from their beloved soil, under 
the leadership of officers sent by the French 
national convention. In the year 18 10, Eng- 
land was again victorious, holding posses- 
sion until the treaty of 1813, when the island 
was ceded to Sweden. In 1816 the French 
General Boyer de Peyreleau obtained a foot- 
ing in the island when, negotiations inter- 
vening, the English withdrew, from which 
time the island has remained a colony of 
France. 

This brief resume of the severe trials and 
sufferings of this brave people is given to 
show in what mold this valiant race was 
cast, and how, almost single-handed, they 
defended their country, contending against 
one of the most powerful nations of the 
world, and how at last they secured their 

350 



colonial independence; and furthermore, to 
show that it was from such heroic an- 
cestors that the subject of this sketch was 
immediately descended. Also, Mr. Boi- 
saubin was of good old Dutch stock, his 
father being a Van Schal-Kwyck, a lineal 
descendant of the Van Schal-Kwycks of the 
town of that name (the family ancestral 
home), situate in the province of Utrecht, 
Holland. In 1630 the Baron Van Schal- 
Kwyck, with his followers and many other 
compatriots, was banished from his native 
country for reasons political and religious. 
He found refuge in Brazil, where for sev- 
eral years he and his fellow countrymen 
enjoyed peace and prosperity. War having 
been declared between Portugal and Hol- 
land, the refugees were again obliged to 
flee, and in their own vessels sailed for the 
French Antilles. 

Mr. Boisaubin was born in the year above 
stated, and at the age of seven was sent to 
Paris for his education, after the comple- 
tion of which, at the age of seventeen, he 
was enrolled as a member of the famous 
Garde de Corps of King Louis XVI, which 
was composed of the nobility only, being 
commanded by the Duke of Luxembourg. 
He served therein for sixteen years, at- 
taining the grade of first lieutenant. Hav- 
ing obtained leave of absence for the pur- 
pose of visiting his estates in the island of 
Guadeloupe, he happened there when the 
French revolution, with its attending hor- 
rors, broke out. Its emissaries reaching the 
island, Mr. Boisaubin, being a well known 
and devoted royalist, was obliged to flee 
in order to save his life. Hastily gathering 
what valuables he could, he took passage 
with his family and body servants on an 
American vessel bound for the United 
States. His parting with his slaves, some 
twelve hundred in number, was most affect- 
ing. Having been to them a kind and pro- 
tecting master, they were greatly attached 
to him and wished to follow him and share 
his fallen fortunes. As the vessel on which 
he was to sail was lifting anchor, a negro 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



was discovered in the water alongside. Mr. 
Boisaubin recognized him as one of his 
slaves; the faithful creature, wishing to 
join his master, swam three miles from 
shore to gain the ship! Mr. Boisaubin, in 
the kindness of his heart, was unable to 
refuse the appeals of the devoted black, and 
brought him to the United States. 

Morristown, New Jersey, being a town 
well known to most Frenchmen, by reason 
of the reports of travelers and of the French 
officers who had served with Washington, 
with many of whom Mr. Boisaubin had been 
acquainted in France, he determined to 
make that place his home, which he eventu- 
ally did, purchasing a tract of land midway 
between Morristown and Bottle Hill (now 
Madison). Here he settled and began the 
life which he ever after maintained, — that 
of a plain Jersey farmer. The mercenaries 
of the Revolution having seized upon his 
estates, he found himself impoverished, and 
was obliged to earn his living in the same 
ways as did his farmer neighbors. Upon 
his arrival in this democratic country he 
dropped his titles to nobility, and, adopting 
the name of one of his plantations in Guade- 
loupe, became simply Vincent Boisaubin, 
which name he bore ever afterward. 

In a few years after Mr. Boisaubin's ar- 
rival in America, the great Emperor Na- 
poleon, wishing to have it known that he 
was friendly to his royalist subjects, though 
opposed to the Bourbon family, magnani- 
mously restored to them the estates and 
properties which the Revolutionists had con- 
fiscated. Thus Mr. Boisaubin entered into 
his own again, and with return of wealth 
he extended aid to neighbors and friends 
in distress with lavish hand. Later on, 
Charles X., king of France, wrote Mr. 
Boisaubin an autograph letter, inviting his 
return to France to resume at his court the 
high position previously held by him under 
the good but ill-fated Louis XVI. The 
veteran of the Garde de Corps in courteous 
terms replied, "that having found peace and 
justice in this noble land, he was content to 

35 



abide therein, and devote his best energies 
for its advancement and prosperity!" It 
was the same king who sent him as a reward 
for his many eminent services, past and pre- 
sent, the much coveted honor of Chevalier 
de St. Louis, together with the insignia and 
jewels of this most ancient and renowned 
order of knighthood. The following obitu- 
ary notice, taken from the Newark "Daily 
Advertiser," of June 12, 1834, is a just 
tribute to this great character and nature's 
nobleman : 

"Died on the 8th instant at his residence near 
Morristown, Vincent Classe Van Schal-Kwyck 
Boisaubin, Esquire, in the eightieth year of his 
age. The death of this distinguished citizen and 
philanthropist is a serious loss to the society of 
which he was an ornament, and will be feelingly 
deplored by a large circle of friends and ac- 
quaintances. He was a nobleman in the best 
sense, who exhibited in all his intercourse with 
society those qualities of mind and heart which 
dignify and adorn the human character. Mr. 
Boisaubin was a native of the island of Guade- 
loupe, though educated in France under dis- 
tinguished advantages, and emigrated to this 
country during the frightful troubles in that is- 
land consequent upon the French revolution. 
He settled at Bottle Hill within about three miles 
of Morristown. where he has lived during a 
period of forty j'ears, universally beloved and 
respected, conspicuous by his noble form and 
bearing, his polished and courteous manners and 
the munificence of his charities. The respect of 
the community which knew so well how to ap- 
preciate these qualities was properly evinced on 
the occasion of his funeral. The stores were 
closed, and it has been remarked to us that 
nearly the whole adult population were assem- 
bled at the interment. It was a distinguished 
expression of feeling that within a mile" of the 
cemetery the horses were spontaneously taken 
from the hearse, which was thence drawn by a 
company of his oldest and most worthy neigh- 
bors. Mr. Boisaubin leaves a family of six chil- 
dren to inherit his good name and virtues." 

His descendants were later represented by 
the families of the Boisaubins, Beauplands 
and Thebauds, of Madison, New Jersey 
(the latter also of New York City), and 
the Van Schal-Kwyck de Boisaubins and 
Formons of France, most of whom took 
rank amongst our most distinguished cit- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



izens, and did honor to their noble ancestor. 
The eldest son, named Boisaubin, was a 
graduate at the United States Military 
Academy at West Point, and died in the 
service of his country. 



HANCOCK, John, 

Famons Old Clergyman. 

Among the first representatives of the 
Methodist ministry in Morris county was 
John Hancock, "a unique man of Chatham 
township, whose character may be summed 
up in the words which describe Barnabas — 
'a good man and full of the Holy Ghost and 
faith.' " 

He was born in Springfield, New Jersey, 
in 1776; and, left fatherless when eight 
months old, he was carried in his mother's 
arms from the blackened ruins of the 
village, burned by the British, to Madison. 
His advantages were few but his diligence 
was great. The first book he ever owned 
was "A New Geographical, Historical and 
Commercial Grammar, and Present State 
of the Several Kingdoms of the World." 
This be bought for six dollars, all obtained 
from selling hazelnuts gathered in the even- 
ing when his work was done, for at that 
time he was serving as an apprentice in 
Columbia. He thoroughly mastered the 
contents of that book. He early began to 
write, and all through his long life his 
thoughts flowed into rhyme as easily as into 
prose, his words having some of the rude 
quaintness of Bunyan. His early religious 
exercises were genuine and deep. He joined 
the Methodist Episcopal church in 1801, 
and learning to speak in the class-meeting, 
he soon went forth into school-houses, 
private dwellings and wherever a door was 
open, publishing the glad tidings. In 1803 
he was licensed as a local preacher, in 1814 
ordained as a deacon, and in 1833 ordained 
as elder by Bishop Hedding. His own 
house, as soon as it was completed, in 1803, 
was opened for a regular place of preaching, 
and continued to be so used until 1832. For 



the remainder of his life, while still sup- 
porting his family by his business and farm, 
he preached in the circuit formed by Flan- 
ders, Paterson, Newark, Rahway and New 
Providence, in heat and cold, in sunshine 
and storm, his expenses generally more than 
his receipts, but he continued his work, ever 
fulfilling the injunction, "As ye go, preach." 
He had a great fund of humor, which, how- 
ever, he kept within bounds. He died in 
great peace, in full possession of his facul- 
ties, in his seventy-eighth year, leaving 
blessed memories behind him in all these 
neighborhoods. Close by his dwelling Mr. 
Hancock had set apart a portion of land for 
a family cemetery, which in his will he made 
"a public burial place.'' Near the entrance, 
and in full view of those who pass by, was 
long to be seen a square board tablet, sus- 
tained by two tall posts, on which was 
painted in large yellow letters, some homely 
but practical lines, written by himself and 
commencing thus : 

Ye travelers through the vale of strife 
To endless death or endless life, 
Here you may learn midst joy or tears 
The end of worldly hopes or fears. 



HINCHMAN, Guy M., 

Noble Old-Time Character. 

Guy Maxwell Hinchman was born in 
Newtown, Tioga county (now Elmira, 
Chemung county). New York, on Novem- 
ber 29, 1795. He was of English descent, 
his grandfather, Joseph Hinchman, having 
been a surgeon in the English navy during 
the hostilities with the French in 1757, and 
subsequently married Anna Griffing and set- 
tled on Long Island. Their children were : 
John, James, Nathaniel, William and Jo- 
seph. 

The last named was born in Jamaica, M 
Long Island, August 28, 1762, and was the 1 
father of Guy M. Hinchman. Joseph 
Hinchman Jr., when sixteen years of age, 
enlisted in the patriot army and took part 
in a number of severe engagements, also 



352 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



suffering the privations and hardsliips at- 
tending the winter encampment at Morris- 
town. When his term of enlistment expired 
he studied medicine with his uncle, Dr. 
James Hinchman, at Florida, Orange coun- 
ty, New York, and commenced to practice 
at Minnisink, in the same county. On 
December 20, 1787, he married Zerviah 
Seely, a daughter of B. Seely, of Milford, 
on the Delaware. In 1788 he removed to 
the town of Chemung, Montgomery (after- 
ward Tioga) county. New York, and in 
1793 he changed his residence to Newtown 
(now Elmira) in the same county, having 
the distinction of being the first physician 
and surgeon to locate in that county. By a 
commission dated February 18, 1795, he was 
appointed by Governor George Clinton 
sheriff of Tioga county, which then com- 
prised the present counties of Tioga, Che- 
mung, Broome, and a portion of Chenango. 
On November 13, 1800, he was appointed 
by Governor John Jay a commissioner to 
inspect and improve the road leading from 
Catskill Landing, Greene county, to Cather- 
inestown, Tioga county. Among Dr. Hinch- 
man's warm personal friends was Guy Max- 
well, after whom he named his second son, 
the subject of this review. Mr. Maxwell 
was a merchant and a prominent citizen of 
Tioga county. He originally settled there 
as a trader with the Seneca Indians, one of 
the tribes in the Iroquois confederacy. In 
consideration of his name he presented his 
namesake with one hundred acres of land 
at the head of the Seneca lake. There were 
born to Dr. Hinchman and his wife six chil- 
dren — Stella, Lesbia, Hiram, Guy M., Zer- 
viah and Felix. Hiram and Zerviah died 
in infancy. Dr. Hinchman died July 23, 
1802, and his widow was remarried in 1807 
to Isaac Baldwin, of Chemung, and died 
May 17, 1810. 

In August, 1810, in compliance with the 
wishes of his mother, expressed shortly be- 
fore her death, Guy M. Hinchman, in com- 
pany with his uncle, Samuel S. Seely, 
started for New Jersey, traveling on horse- 

353 
11-23 



back. A large part of the journey he made 
alone, his uncle parting company with him 
at Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. The fif- 
teen-year-old lad accomplished the distance 
between Wilkes-Barre and Flanders, New 
Jersey, in less than two days, arriving at the 
residence of his uncle, William Hinchman, 
late in the afternoon of the second day, 
thus displaying early in life the same energy 
and determination that were his dominant 
characteristics in later years. After a rest 
of a few days he commenced his business 
career by taking the position of junior clerk 
in the store of his uncle, James Hinchman, 
at Succasunna Plains, the senior clerks being 
William F. Kerr and Chilion F. DeCamp. 
He remained so employed until 181 5, divid- 
ing his time between the store at Succasunna 
and a supply store at Brookland, at the 
outlet of Lake Hopatcong, where his uncle 
had a four-fire bloomery forge and a grist 
and saw mill. At the close of the year 1814 
he went to the Mount Pleasant mine near 
Dover and took charge of affairs, his uncle 
having a short time previously purchased 
the mine of Moses Tuttle for the sum of 
four thousand dollars, payable in monthly 
installments of iron ore. In the latter part 
of 1 81 5 he purchased from his uncle and 
his cousin, John R. Hinchman, their interest 
in the mine property, by paying each of 
them nine hundred dollars, and obligating 
himself to pay to Moses Tuttle the balance 
due him on the monthly installments of 
ore, as stipulated in their contract. This 
he subsequently did, and received from 
Moses Tuttle a title to the mine. He con- 
tinued to operate the mine for seven years, 
and in the fall of 1822 he sold the property 
to Nathaniel Corwin for the sum of three 
thousand dollars. During this period Mr. 
Hinchman could mine as much ore in six 
months as he could dispose of during the 
entire year, notwithstanding the fact that 
the Mount Pleasant ore was considered 
equal, and by some superior, to that pro- 
duced by the Dickerson mine at Succasunna. 
These two mines supplied all the demands 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



for ores used in the bloomery forges of 
this section at that time. Money in those 
days was a scarce commodity in the com- 
munity, and Mr. Hinchman received as pay 
for ores sold, bloomery iron drawn into 
octagonal bars under the forge hammer. 
In order to find a market for the iron thus 
obtained, he was obliged to haul it by teams 
to Elizabethtown Point for shipment to 
New York, where he converted it into mer- 
chandise or money, as his necessities de- 
manded. In the spring of 1823 Mr. Hinch- 
man removed with his family to New York, 
where he entered into partnership with Wil- 
liam H. Hinchman in the wholesale grocery 
business, at No. 10 South street. He first 
resided in Stone street, then in the heart of 
the city; but, his family increasing, it was 
deemed best for the health of the young 
children to change his residence to the 
suburbs ; so he removed to Broome street, 
a short distance from Broadway, which at 
that time was thought to be well in the 
country. In 1825 his partner died, and he 
continued the business alone until 1834, 
when his health having become impaired, 
he was compelled to relinquish his business 
and go to the country with his family. He 
spent the winter of 1835 at Longwood, with 
his brother-in-law, Chilion F. DeCamp. His 
health was so much improved by the brac- 
ing mountain air of that region that in the 
spring of that year, at the solicitation of 
Henry McFarlan, he accepted the manage- 
ment of the Dover iron works, owned by 
Blackwell & McFarlan, but at that time 
rented by Henry McFarlan, and subse- 
quently purchased by him. Mr. Hinchman 
entered into his new position May 5, 1835, 
and continued in the supervision of the 
works until July, 1869, when the iron busi- 
ness became depressed, and Mr. McFarlan, 
finding himself perfectly easy in his business 
aifairs and having no obligations unmatured 
or outstanding, decided to close his 
business and dispose of his mills. These 
works were for their day quite ex- 
tensive, and had an enviable reputation for 

354 



the quality of their products. They con- 
sisted of a puddling and rolling mill for the 
manufacture of refined iron ; a rivet mill, 
where boiler rivets and brace-jaws were 
produced ; and a steel furnace, where iron 
was converted into blister steel by the odd 
process of carburizing iron bars by im- 
bedding them in charcoal powder and ex- 
posing them to a temperature above red- 
ness. During the thirty-four years of his 
connection with the works, Mr. Hinchman 
became so closely identified with the busi- 
ness and his relations with Mr. McFarlan 
were so cordial and confidential that he 
conducted its aflfairs as if it had been in 
fact his own property. 

On January 29, 1841, Mr. Hinchman was 
elected president of the Union Bank of 
Dover, which office he held until 1866, when 
the tax on the issues of State banks be- 
came so onerous that it was deemed best by 
the stockholders to discontinue the business 
and place their capital in other channels of 
trade. This bank had the unique distinc- 
tion of having its bills pass current in every 
State of the Union, which was at variance 
with the general run of State banks of the 
period, whose bills of issue would hardly 
pass current outside of their immediate 
vicinity, to say nothing of circulating in 
other States. The high esteem in which 
this bank was held arose from two causes, 
one being its excellent management, and the 
other that its bills were redeemed in gold 
or its equivalent on presentation in New 
York at the banking house of Vermilye & 
Company or the importing house of Phelps, 
Dodge & Company, the last named being 
large stockholders in the institution. The 
bills of the Union Bank had an exchange 
value which made them eagerly sought for 
by bankers and merchants throughout the 
country. 

Mr. Hinchman was for many years the 
best known man in Dover, and one of its 
most prominent citizens, both in its business 
and social world. During the forty-four 
years of his residence there he saw it grow 



I 



J 
1 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



from a small hamlet into an incorporated 
city, and he was always actively interested in 
its progress and welfare. He was a man 
of strong character, positive in his tastes 
and fearless in the defence of his opinions, 
yet withal generous, frank and lovable. He 
possessed an artistic temperament, as was 
evinced by his love of flowers. For many 
years he had the most beautiful and care- 
fully cultivated flower garden in this sec- 
tion of the country. He was also an adept 
with both the pen and the brush, and many 
examples of his artistic skill are still pre- 
served which were executed by him after 
reaching the psalmist's limit of three-score 
years and ten. In personal appearance Mr. 
Hinchman was of short and sturdy build, 
of a florid complexion and possessing the 
ornate manners of the old-sctiool gentle- 
man of his day. During his youth and 
early manhood he engaged actively in all 
forms of athletic sports, in all of which he 
displayed great proficiency. His penchant, 
however, was the use of the rifle and fowl- 
ing-piece, and his quickness, steady nerve 
and accurate eye placed him in the front 
rank of marksmen and wing shots. He 
was wont to show with pardonable pride 
targets made by him with the rifle at the 
old "Thatched Cottage" garden in Jersey 
City, which were marvels of marksmanship. 
This famous shooting range was the mecca 
of riflemen living in the vicinity of New 
York, and he once had the honor to contest 
there for supremacy with Davy Crockett, 
of Kentucky fame. Crockett was handi- 
capped by the use of a strange rifle and did 
not make the showing he might otherwise 
have done. Originally, Mr. Hinchman was 
in politics a Whig, later becoming an ardent 
Republican, taking an active interest in na- 
tional, state and municipal affairs, and al- 
ways having the courage to express his 
convictions. He never held any political 
office. He was a member of the Masonic 
fraternity and obtained his degrees from 
the lodge that held its meetings at Berkshire 
Valley. 

355 



On August i6, 1816, Mr. Hinchman 
was united in marriage to Miss Susan 
Grandin DeCamp, a daughter of Joseph and 
Jane (Tuttle) DeCamp, the latter a lineal 
descendant of the "Widow Ford, who came 
over in the Fortune," in November, 1621. 
Nine children were born to them: An 
infant, who died in childhood ; Zerviah and 
Felix, who were born at Mount Pleasant; 
Augustus, James, Louisa and Stella, in New 
York; and Sophronia and another infant, 
the latter dying shortly after birth, at 
Dover. Mr. Hinchman died in the house In 
which he had resided since 1837, on Febru- 
ary 13, 1879, being then in his eighty-fourth 
year. He retained his mental and physical 
activity until the time of his death, which, 
in fact, resulted from a cold contracted by 
him while exercising a young horse under 
saddle during the inclement winter weather. 
At his own request his former pastor, Dr. 
B. C. Magie, preached the funeral sermon, 
taking as his text Genesis xxv, 8: "He 
died in a good old age, an old man and 
full of years." He was buried in the family 
lot in Locust Hill Cemetery, in Dover. 



GREENE, Henry P., 

Old-Time Physician. 

In the first half of the nineteenth cen- 
tury Dr. Greene was one of the most prom- 
inent, influential and honored citizens of 
Morris county. His life was characterized 
by all that is good and true, and the splen- 
did characteristics of his nature commanded 
the respect of all who knew him, while his 
memory is still cherished by those who en- 
joyed his friendship and his regard. 

Dr. Henry Prentice Greene was born in 
Calais, Vermont, December i, 1798, and 
was of English descent, belonging to one 
of the oldest American families. In direct 
line his ancestry can be traced back to 
Thomas Greene, who was born in England 
in 1606, and emigrated to the New World 
about 1635. His son. Captain William 
Greene, was born in Ipswich, Massachu- 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



setts, in 1635, and was the father of Wil- 
liam Greene, who was born in Maiden, 
Massachusetts, in 1661. The last named 
had a son, Captain Nathaniel Greene, who 
was born in Maiden, September 28, 1689, 
and served as captain of the first foot com- 
pany of Leicester, in 1743. His son. Rev. 
Nathaniel Greene, the grandfather of Dr. 
Henry P. Greene, was born in Charlestown 
End, in 1721, and his son, Rufus Greene, 
was a native of Leicester, Massachusetts, 
born April 10, 1762. He married Keziah 
Eddy, of Brookfield, Massachusetts, a rep- 
resentative of one of the old New England 
families. 

Dr. Greene received a thorough prepara- 
tory training in public and private schools, 
and was for some years successfully en- 
gaged in teaching. Determining, however, 
to make the practice of medicine his life 
work, he began his preparation for his 
chosen calling in the office and under the 
direction of Drs. Jepthah B. Munn & 
Whelpley, of Morristown, and was gradu- 
ated at the Columbia College of Physicians 
and Surgeons, of New York. He then be- 
gan practice in New Vernon, Morris county, 
in April, 1826, and removed to Madison in 
1828, at the request of the most prominent 
citizens of the place. He continued his 
practice there for thirty years, and his su- 
perior ability in the line of his chosen pro- 
fession brought him a very large patronage. 
He was always a student of his profession, 
earnestly doing all in his power to gain per- 
fection in his work and thus bring relief to 
suffering humanity. He was a man of deep 
sympathy and had a sincere love for his 
fellow-men that led him to do all in his 
power for those whom he served, and often 
he was found at the bedside of a sufferer 
from whom no financial reward might be 
hoped. In his political predilections Dr. 
Greene was a Whig, and was honored with 
a number of local offices. He held mem- 
bership in the Presbyterian church, and for 
a number of years served as a member of 
its board of trustees and took a very active 

356 



part in promoting its cause in the neighbor- 
hood. His moral standard was high and 
he lived up to it. His word was as good 
as his bond ; he was the soul of honor, and 
the better one knew him the greater the 
respect, the warmer the friendship sustained 
for him. His life was that of a big-souled, 
large-minded, noble-hearted Christian gen- 
tleman. 

Dr. Greene was married, August 15, 1829, 
to Sarah Joanna Crowell, born April I2, 
1803, a native of Newark, and a daughter 
of David and Mehitable (Beach) Crowell, 
of Newark. They were the parents of six 
children, three of whom grew to maturity: 
Mary Augusta; Everett M., born October 
5, 1834, died March 15, 1855; and Alice 
Linden. Dr. Greene owned a pleasant home 
in 'Madison, and forty acres of land which 
now lies within the heart of that city. He 
was a man of domestic tastes, and found 
his greatest pleasure in promoting the hap- 
piness and enhancing the welfare of his 
family. He died October 15, 1858, and his 
wife, who was a most estimable lady, great- 
ly beloved for her many excellencies of 
character, died April 20, 1851. 



VANATTA, Hon. Jacob, 

Lawyer, Public Official. 

Hon. Jacob Vanatta was born on the 
banks of the Musconetcong, near Washing- 
ton, Warren county, New Jersey, June 4, 
1824. He early devoted all the time he 
could possibly spare to study and the im- 
provement of his mind. 

He had always desired to embrace the 
profession of the law, and in 1845 he en- 
tered the law office of Theodore Little as 
a student. He was licensed as an attorney 
in October, 1849, ^"d as a counsellor in 
February, 1853. From the very first he 
had an extended and lucrative practice. He 
quickly assumed a leading position, and in 
a short time became the foremost lawyer 
in Morris county. There was scarcely an 
important case tried in the county, after 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



his admission to the bar, that he was not 
connected with. In all his cases he was 
painstaking and he expended upon them an 
amount of thought and labor truly won- 
derful. His practice grew, until at the time 
of his death it was probably the largest in 
the state. His reputation advanced with 
his practice, and for years he stood at the 
head of the New Jersey bar, as an able, 
faithful, conscientious and untiring advo- 
cate and counsel. 

During the later years of his life Mr. 
Vanatta's time and services were largely 
monopolized by the great corporations of 
the country ; he had become the regular 
counsel of the Delaware, Lackawanna and 
Western Railroad Company, the Central 
Railroad Company, and more or less of 
many other corporations, and his engage- 
ments carried him frequently before the 
highest courts of New York and Pennsyl- 
vania and the United States Supreme Court. 

Mr. Vanatta was always a firm, con- 
sistent and unwavering Democrat. He was 
the recognized head of the party in his 
county, and all over the State was for years 
regarded as one of its ablest men. In 1856 
he was a delegate to the National Conven- 
tion that nominated Buchanan. In the 
memorable struggle of i860 he adhered to 
the fortunes of Stephen A. Douglas, and 
was chairman of the Douglas State Com- 
mittee ; as such he refused to join the fusion 
ticket, and thus succeeded in dividing the 
electoral vote of the State between Mr. 
Lincoln and Mr. Douglas. During the war 
he followed his chieftain, and was through- 
out a war Democrat. At the convention 
which nominated General McClellan for 
Governor he was appointed chairman of the 
State committee, a position he held at the 
time of his death. 

Mr. Vanatta held few public positions; 
he was a member of the House of As- 
sembly in the years 1862 and 1863, and 
in the latter year was a candidate for the 
nomination for United States Senator 

357 



against the late William Wright, only fail- 
ing by a vote or two in the Democratic 
caucus. He was frequently urged to accept 
gubernatorial or congressional nominations, 
but always declined. At different times he 
refused tendered positions on the Supreme 
bench of the State. He was appointed at- 
torney-general by the Governor, but after 
holding the office for about fifteen months 
was compelled to resign it because of the 
immense pressure of his private practice. 

In October, 1852, Mr. Vanatta married a 
daughter of Dr. Aaron Dickerson, of Phila- 
delphia; she was also a niece of General 
Mahlon Dickerson, General Jackson's secre- 
tary of the navy and ex-Governor of New 
Jersey. In private life Mr. Vanatta was 
kind and obliging; he was a safe and judici- 
ous adviser, a faithful and steadfast friend, 
a good citizen and an honest man. His 
life was doubtless sacrificed to his un- 
wearied zeal and industry in his profession. 
At the same time his whole life furnished 
a remarkable instance of what ability, at- 
tended with industry and study, can accom- 
plish in overcoming adverse circumstances. 

The malady which occasioned Mr. Va- 
natta's death was Bright's disease of the 
kidneys. He died at his residence in Mor- 
ristown, April 30, 1879. The funeral ser- 
vices, held at the First Presbyterian Church, 
were attended by the State officers, judges 
of the Supreme Court, and men eminent in 
every walk of life. Impressive discourses 
were delivered by the Rev. Rufus S. Green, 
pastor of the church, and the Rev. David 
Irving, D. D., a former pastor. 

Resolutions setting forth in fitting terms 
the high estimate in which the deceased was 
held by his colleagues were passed at meet- 
ings of the Essex county and Morris county 
bars. The addresses of Theodore Little, 
Hon. Augustus W. Cutler, Alfred Mills, 
Frederick A. De Mott and James H. Neigh- 
bour, delivered at the meeting of the Morris 
county bar, were most eloquent and touch- 
ing personal tributes to the eminent worth 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 



and character of their late colleague and 
brother, and a most fitting expression of 
their personal grief at the loss occasioned by 
his death. 



BUDD, Joseph, 

Manufacturer, liegislator. 

Hon. Daniel Budd was one of the most 
influential of the citizens of Chester, both 
in business and political circles. He filled 
many positions of trust, and did much to 
develop the resources and increase the pros- 
perity of his native town. Like his father 
and his grandfather, he lived and died in 
Chester, and the activities of his entire life 
were closely identified with the interests of 
his native place. His ancestor, John Budd, 
five generations before, emigrated from 
England to New Haven, about the year 
1632, and became one of the first proprietors 
of that settlement. He subsequently re- 
moved to Southold, Long Island, and thence 
to Rye, Westchester county, New York. 

Daniel Budd, the grandfather of the sub- 
ject of our sketch, moved from Rye, New 
York, together with his father, John Budd, 
in the early part of the eighteenth century, 
and purchased the old Budd farm, near 
Black river. His mother was Mary Strang 
(L'Estrange), daughter of a French Hugue- 
not, who fled from France on account of 
religious persecution, in the days of Louis 
XIV. and found refuge at New Rochelle, 
Connecticut. Romantic stories of danger 
and escape have been handed down from 
generation to generation. This Daniel Budd 
was for a long time assessor of the township 
of Roxiticus, and a captain in the reserves 
of the Revolutionary War. On one oc- 
casion, during his absence on duty his house 
was burned, under circumstances which led 
to the suspicion that it was an act of re- 
venge on the part of the Tories. 

Joseph Budd, son of this Daniel, and 
father of Hon. Daniel Budd, was a captain 
in the War of 1812. He commanded his 
company at Sandy Hook and other places of 

358 



defense. His wife was Joanna Swayzee, 
and after her husband had lost his health 
during the war, which he never recovered, 
she endeavored bravely to fill his place in 
many of the active duties of farm life. Their 
son, Daniel, was born June 8, 1809. When 
a boy he had much of the charge of his 
invalid father, and after his death remained 
with his mother upon the fann as long as 
she lived. He was married, February 25, 
1847, to Mary K. Hunt, daughter of John 
Hunt, of Newton, Sussex county, and sis- 
ter of Hon. Samuel H. Hunt. He was en- 
gaged at various times in many avenues of 
active business — being a farmer, manufac- 
turer, surveyor, drover, colonel of cavalry, 
and a general business man, settling estates 
and holding positions of confidence. He 
was always prominent in the political af- 
fairs of his township, and for many years 
was returned as a freeholder, and in the 
board of freeholders always exercised a 
commanding influence. In the years 1856- 
1857 he was a member of the New Jersey 
Legislature, and in the years 1860-61-62 he 
filled the office of State senator. While 
senator he was chairman of the committee 
on corporations, and a member of other im- 
portant committees, and was chosen State 
director of the Camden and Amboy Rail- 
road. For many years he carried on the 
business of manufacturing malleable iron, 
and devoted much time and energy to the 
development of the mineral resources of 
Chester. To him may be attributed largely 
the building and completion of the Chester 
Railroad. 

He was a friend to the poor, ever ready 
to contribute to their wants, and to assist 
those who were struggling in business, and 
he was a liberal supporter of the church and 
of public enterprises. He erected many 
buildings for manufacturing purposes, and 
took the warmest interest in the cause of 
education. In 1869 he erected in the village 
a large three-story stone building for the 
use of a boarding school, at a cost of many 
thousand dollars. 



CYCLOPEDIA OF NEW JERSEY 

He died in June, 1873, ^t the age of sixty- from various parts of the State, accom- 

four, leaving a wide breach in the com- panied his remains to their last resting place 

munity where he had lived and labored ; and in the cemetery of Pleasant Hill, 
an immense concourse of people, gathered 



359 



I 



INDEX 



I 



INDEX 



Abbett, Ezekiel, 28 

Leon, 28 
Acton, Benjamin, 128 

Edward A., Capt., 129 

Frances B., 130 

Isaac, 128 

John, 128 

Jonathan W., 128, 129 

Samuel, 128 
Alexander, Archibald, Rev., 
26 

William C, 26 
Allen, Joseph W., Col., 30 

William F., 30 
Atwater, Edward S., 131 

Gertrude, 132 

Lyman H., Rev., 131 

Babbitt, Mary E., 158 

Robert M., 158 

Robert O., 158 
Ball, Edward, 146 

Ezekiel, 147 

Frederick W., 148 

Horace W., 147 

James T., 146, 147 

Oliver, 147 

Samuel, 147 

Thomas, 147 
Banister, Adelaide, 138 

Elijah, 137 

Isaac, 137 

James A., 136, 137 
Barnett, James G., 321 

William H., 321 
Barrett, Hugh C, 199 

Michael T., Col., 198 

Timothy, 198 
Bassett, Fannie, 263 

George F., 263 
Beasley, Frederick, Rev., 83 



Mercer, 83 
Beattie, Robert, 314, 315 

Ruth, 315 
Bechtel, Alice B., 175 

Wellington, 175 
Bedle, Althea R., 235 

Joseph D., Gov., 235 
Bennett, Anna M., 192 

David H., 192 

William, 192 
Bentley, Christopher, 211 

Peter, Sr., 210 

Peter (2nd), 322 
Bigelow, Eliza R., 173 

Moses, 171 

Moses, Jr., 173 

Timothy, 171 
Bodine, Daniel B., 189 

Francis, 188 

Jean, 188 

John, 189 

Joseph L., Dr., 188, 189 

Stacy, 189 
Boggs, Charles S., 55 
Bonnell, Adelaide, 106 

Samuel, 105 

Samuel, Jr., 105 
Borcherling, Charles F., 220 

Charles G. A., 220 

Mary L., 221 
Breakenridge, Andrew, 196 

Emily, 196 

John H., 196 
Breese, Arthur, 177 

James B., Capt., 177, 178 

Josephine O., 178 

Samuel, Col., 177 

Sidney, Hon., 177 
Brooks, Barker, 26 

Noah, 26 
Brown, Abel, Rev., 142 
363 



Abel S., 142, 143 

Charlotte, 144 
Browning, Eva B., 295 

John, 294 

John H., 293, 295 

Nathaniel, 293 

Thomas, 294 

William, 294 
Brumley, Horace T., "]"] 

Irene, 78 

Joseph, ^J^ 
Budd, Andrews E., Dr., 328 

Eckard P., 328 

Eliza E., 329 
Burns, John, 31 

Cadmus, Emilie V., 112 

Stephen V. C, 112 

Thomas J., 112 
Campbell, Elizabeth M., 123 

David F., 122 

Edward S., 122 
Cleveland, Grover, 23 

Richard F., Rev., 23 
Coles, Abraham, 3 

Dennis, 3 

Helen E., 146 

J. Ackerman, Dr., 3 

William C, 146 
Condit, Aaron P., 73 

Samuel, 73 
Cooke, Watts, 112 
Coxe, John R., Dr., 247 
Crane, John W., 263 

Moses M., 263 

Stephen, 263 
Crawford, Mary P., 230 

Thomas, Jr., 229, 230 

Thomas, Sr., 230 
Creveling, Anna M., 121 

Augustus, 121 



INDEX 



A. W., 121 
Cross, Joseph, 126 

Mary P., 127 

William, 127 
Crouse, Frederick, 230 

Otto, Hon., 230 
Cuthbert, Anthony, Capt., 316 

Fanny C, 317 

May land, 316 

Samuel, 316 

Daniels, Charlotte A., 327 

Thomas, 326, 327 

Thomas E., 327 
De Camp, John, Rear Admir- 
al, 218 
Delp, Anne E., 194 

George, 193 

James A. H., 192, 193 
Dick, John, Rev., 52 

Samuel, Dr., 52 
Dickinson, Garetta, 202 

John, 201 

Philemon, 201 

Philemon, Gen., 201 

Samuel M., Gen., 201 
Dixon, Jonathan, 78 
Doremus, Cornelius, 261, 262 

Elias O., 261, 262 

Peter, 262 

Peter C, 262 
Douglas, Frederick S., 115 

Jane W., 115 

Samuel, 115 
Drake, Edward C, 145 

James W., Col., 145 
Drew, Thomas, 276 

Annie, 276 
Dryden, John, 94 

John F., 94 
Dubar, Charles L., 228 

Marie A. M., 229 

Matthias, 229 
Dunham, David, 186 

John, 186, 187 

John S., 185 

Sering P., 186 
Dunlop, George, 292 



Jeannie, 293 

John, 292 
Du Pont, Samuel F., 37 

Victor M., 37 
Durand, Asher B., 248 

Cyrus, 248 
Duryee, Amy C, 336 

Edward H., 338 

George, 335 

Joseph KL, 336 

Peter S., 335 

William R., Rev., 336 

Eakin, Alphonso L., 35 

Constant M., 35, 36 
Elkinton, Eleanor, 258 

William T., 258 
Elliott, Alexander, 109 

Robert W., 109 
Ellison, Lewis, 121 

Michael E., Rev., 121 

Flemming, Isaac, 227 

James, Jr., 227 

*Forman, John B., 235 

Jonathan, 235 

Robert, 235 
Fort, George F., 47 
Francis, Edward W., 135, 136 

William, 135 

William A., 135 
Freeman, Alexander H., 251 

Ginevra, 252 

Joseph, 251 

Samuel, 251 

Uzal W., 251 

Wilberforce, 252 

Gilchrist, Robert, Hon., 221 
Godley, Augustus, 242 

John F., 242, 243 

Sarah E., 243 

William, 242 
Goodbody, Margaret J., 326 

Robert, 325 
Goodwin, Eleanor H., 64 

Hannibal, Rev., 63 
Graham, Archibald, 216 

James, 216 



James A., 216 
Sarah L., 216 
Green, Ashbel, Rev., 91 
James S., 91 
Robert S., 91 

Hamill, Edward H., Dr., 120 

Edward J., Rev., 120 

Emma J., 121 
Hardenbergh, Augustus A., 
225 

Cornelius L., 225 

Jacob R., Rev., 225 
Harrison, Joseph, 51 

Josiah, 51 

Jotham, 51 

Richard, 51 

Stephen, 51 
Hasbrouck, Washington, Dr., 

224 
Hayes, Adelaide, 231 

Charles, 231 

Frederick T., 231 

Henry W., 231 

Jabez W., 231 

William, 231 
Hinchliffe, John, 289 

John D., 290 
Holden, Asa, 330 

Edgar, Dr., 330 

John, 330 

Justinian, 330 
Hollinshead, Charles S., 208 

Joseph H., 208 

Margaret S., 210 
Hopper, Abram G., 190 

Garrett, 190 

Sarah A., 191 
House, Jacob, 130 

Jonathan, 131 

William, 131 
Howe, Edwin J., Dr., 118 

John M., Rev., 118 
Hull, Joseph, 294 
Hunt, Henry, 114 

Sylvester H., Dr., 114 

William E., 165 



I 



♦See Addenda, last page of Index. 



364 



INDEX 



Huston, Alexander, 271 
Henry, Judge, 270 
James B., 271 
John, 271 
Laura A., 272 

Jackson, James, 259 

Percy, 261 

Peter, 259 

William, 258, 260 
Johnson, Fanny V., 309 

J. Augustus, 308 

Lorenzo D., Rev., 308 
Jordan, Charles, 196 

Elizabeth A., 196 

Kalisch, Burnham, Rev., 331 

Isidor, Rev., 331 

Samuel, 334 
Kean, John, 175, 176 

Julian H., 176 

Peter P. J., 175 
Kellam (Kellum), Luther, 174 

Luther H., 174 

Samuel H., 174 

Samuel L., 174 
Kidd, Harry J., 140 

Lillian M., 142 

William, 141 
Kilpatrick, Hugh J., Gen., 93 
Kinney, Thomas T., 313 

WilHam B., 313 
Kirkpatrick, Andrew, 310 

John B., 310 
Kunsman, Amos, 223 

Leola, 224 

Ladd, Benjamin F., 311, 312 

Harvey H., 312 

Julia M., 313 

Samuel, 311 
Lambert, Antonia, 198 

George, 197 

George H., 197 
Lanning, Elijah, 168 

Elijah W., 168 

Kenneth H., 169 

Nathaniel, 168 



Robert, 168 

Stephen, 168 

William M., Hon., 168 
Lebkuecher, Francis, 226 

Julius A., 226 

Louise, 227 
Lee, Annabella W., 205 

Benjamin F., 205 

Francis, 202 

Francis B., 202, 206 

Thomas, 204 
Lewis, Qiarles, 278 

Griffith, 278 

Griffith W., 277, 278 

Howard F., 279 
Lindsley, Adele H., 324 

James H., 323 

John, 323 

Peter, 323 
Livingston, Gilbert, Col, 179 

Henry, 179 

Henry, Maj., 179 

Robert, Col., 179 
Lock ward, John T., Dr., no 

Lewis G., no 

Robert C, in 
Ludlow, George C, 91 

Macllvaine, Anne, 165 

Edward S., 159, 163, 164 

John, 161 

Joseph, 161 

William, 161 

William R., 164 
Mackie, Arthur H., 41 

Elise, 41 
McCarter, John, 75 

Robert, 75 

Robert H., 75 

Thomas N., 75 
McGill, Alexander T., 99 
McKenzie, James J., 319 

William, 317, 318 
McPherson, Donald, 200 

James, 200 

John R., 200 
Maddock, Harry S., 179, 180 

John, 180 

365 



Thomas, 180 
Manners, David, Capt., 217 

David S., 217 

Edwin, 228 

John, 217 
Mecum, Andrew, 50 

Edward, 50 

Ellen, 52 

James W., 49, 50 

Maria H., 51 

William, 50 
Meeker, John H., 103 

Samuel, 103 
Mellsop, Charles, 195 

John, 195 
Merselis, Edo, 245 

Edo L, 244, 246 

Gabriel, 244 

Gerrit, 246 

Jan, 244 

John D., 246 

Marcelis P., 245 

Pieter, 244, 245 

Sarah V., 247 
Miller, Jacob W., 36 

William W., 36 
Moses, David, 106 

John, 106 
Myers, Amelia O., 1 18 

James L., 118 

William T., n8 

Nast, Thomas, 29 
Nelson, Cornelius M., 102 

Salome W., 150 

Samuel C, 102 

Thomas, 149 

William, 148, 149 

Oberly, Benjamin, 296 
Henry H., Rev., 295, 296 

Orcutt, Calvin B., 156 
Harriet M., 157 
Phineas C, 156 

Parker, Charles, 57 
Joel, 57 
Thomas, 57 



INDEX 



Parsons, Abraham, 213 
Ella, 215 

Ellwood, 212, 215 
George, 212 
Isaac, 214 
John, 212 
Thomas, 213 
Peck, Aaron, 85 
Cyrus, 85 
Henry, 85 
William H., 86 
Peddie, Thomas B., 48 
Pemberton, Jane, iii 
Samuel H., iii 
William M., in 
Perry, James, 325 
Peterson, Benjamin, 139 
Bertel, 140 
Mary, 140 
Pettit, Alonzo, Dr., 272 
Ellen M., 273 
Samuel, 272 
Phillips, Alice L., 125 
Franklin, 124, 125 
John M., 125 
Pierson, Isaac, Dr., 305 
Margaret, 307 
Matthias, Dr., 304 
Samuel, 304 
Thomas, 304 
William, Dr., 304, 305 
William, Jr., Dr., 306 
Plum, John, 268 ■ 
Matthias, 268 
Samuel, 268 
Stephen H., 268, 269 
Stephen H., Jr., 269 
Pope, Jeremiah, 100 

Samuel, 100 
Prescott, Charles J., 302 
Clara, 302 

Quinby, James M., 40 
Jotham, 40 
Thomas, 40 

Randolph, Bennington P., 232, 
233 



Edward, 233 
Eliza H., 235 
Francis C. F., 233 
James F., 308 
Joseph F., 233 
Robert F., 233 
Theodore F., 338 
Rankin, Anna A., 154 
John C, Jr., 153 
John C, Rev., 153 
Ransom, Amasa, 219 
Ann B., 167 
Charles A., 166, 167 
Stephen B., 219 
Rhoads, Beulah S., 258 
Charles, 255, 257 
James, 257 
John, 257 
Joseph, 257 
Ricord, Elizabeth, 88 
Frederick W., 88 
Jean B., 88 
Robeson, Andrew, 90 
George M., 90 
William P., 90 
Roebling, John A., 43 
Rogers, Nancy O., 289 
Peter F., Major, 285, 286 
Peter J., 286 
Romeyn, James, Rev., 254 
James V. C, 254 
John, 254 
Nicholas, 254 

Theodore B., Rev., 253, 254 
Thomas, Rev., 254 
Ropes, Benjamin, 300 
David N., 299, 300 
George, 299 
John, 300 
Lydia L., 302 
Samuel, 300 
Timothy, 300 
Row, James W., 194 
Sophia, 194 
William, 194 
Rumsey, Benjamin, 33 
Charles, 33 
Constance, 34 
366 



George B., 32, 34 

George C, 33 

Henry M., 32, 33 

William, 33 
Runyon, Abraham, 67 

Theodore, 67 
Rust, Andrew, 250 

George P., 249, 250 
Rutherfurd, John, 54 

Robert W., 54 

Sandford, Arthur E., 105 
Theodore, 104, 105 
William, 104 
William M., 104 
Sewell, William J., 73 
Shippen, Edward, 162 
Edward, Judge, 163 
Joseph, 162 
Smith, Charles, 182 
Charles P., 181, 182 
Elizabeth A., 185 
George W., 182 
Perrin, 182 
Spellmeyer, Henry, Rev., 236 
Matilda, 241 
Matthias H., 239 
Stephens, John L., 42 
Stockton, Charles S., Dr., 107 
John P., 90 
Martha A., 109 
Richard, 90, 107 
Robert F., 90 
Stacy, 107 
Stoddard, Anthony, 60 
Anthony, Rev., 60 
Eliakim, 60 
Elijah W., Rev., 59, 61 
Eliza A., 62 
John, 61 

Solomon, Rev., 60 
William, 60 
Strong, Joseph, Rev., T] 
Theodore, TJ 
Woodbridge, 76, •J^ 
Sutton, Frederick, 241 
George, 241 



INDEX 



Talmage, David T., 71 

Thomas D. W., Rev., 71 
Ten Eyck, John C, 56 
Tomlin, Florence E., 242 

Francis H., 242 
Townsend, Charles, Rev., 133 

Charles, Hon., 133 

Mary L., 134 

Nathaniel, 275 

Zebulon E., 275 
Tuers, Laura M., 67 

W. J., 67 

Van Duyne, Elizabeth F., 284 

Harrison, 282 

James, 282 

John, 282 

John R., 282 

Martin, 282 

Ralph, 282 
Van Houten, Anthony B., 69 

Edmund, 71 

Martin, 69 
Vreeland, Michael J., 65 

Warren, 65 
Vroom, Garret D. W., 79 

George, 79 



Peter D., Col., 79 
Peter D., Gov., 79 

Wagenhals, Lincoln A., 136 

Caroline L., 136 
Walker, John A., 116 
Ward, Leslie D., 81 

Moses D., 81 
Werts, George T., 276 

Peter, 276 
West, Arthur P., 139 

Charles A., 138, 139 

Charles W., Col., 138 

Henry A., Capt., 138 
Whelpley, Edwrard W., 58 

William A., Dr., 58 
Whitehead, John, 86 
Whitney, Eben, Capt, 319 

George, D., 319, 320 

George H., Rev., 280, 281 

Henrietta, 282 

Henry, 280 

Jared, 281 

John, 281 

Richard, 281 

Samuel A., 319 

Thomas H., 319, 320 



William, 281 
Wood, George B., Dr., 249 
Wright, Benjamin, 266 

Edward H., Maj., 265 

Edwin R. V., 81 

William, 266 

William, Dr., 266 

Yard, Archibald W., 178 

Edward M., 178 

Edward M., Capt., 179 

Joseph, 178 

Richard, 178 

William, 178 
Yardley, Charles B., 155 

Margaret T., 155 

Samuel S., 155 
Young, Charles E., 298 

Edward F. C, 222 

Henry, Jr., 299 

Henry, Sr., 297, 298 

John, 298 

John, Rev., 222 

Robert, 298 

Zabriskie, Abraham O., 45 



ADDENDA AND ERRATA 

Forman, Foreman, p. 235. Names were subject to many changes, and there is a reason, 
however, for the Foreman, as in early times, when conditions suggested names, 
twins having been born to the Marie Antoinette family, the first one was called 
Foreman, hence the name. On the tombstones (usually correct) Forman is in 
evidence at Old Scots burying ground at Wickoff Hill and at Old Tennent Church. 
Robert Foreman signed his will at Oyster Bay with a double f, as flF, but High 
Sheriff Samuel, grandson of Robert Foreman, gave his name as Samuel For- 
man, dropping the e, and from that time it has been so used. 



367 



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